Perceptual Sensitivity to Blood Glucose by Self Monitoring Diabetics. Task 3 Report. Volume 1

摘要

Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) has made important contributions to the quality of diabetes self-care. SMBG allows patients to more actively participate in their own treatment programs, which is a stated desire of most diabetics. Many patients express satisfaction with the sense of enhanced control over their treatment conferred by SMBG (Consensus Conference, 1987). The study focuses on the relationship between perceptual sensitivity to blood glucose and compliance to prescribed SMBG regimens. To ensure a thorough and systematic treatment of this topi, the following is in the report: (1) Examines the perceptual sensitivity of diabetics, who are experienced with SMBG, to their blood glucose levels in a natural, home setting; (2) explores the applicability of established psychophysical methods for quantifying the ability of diabetics to detect variations in their blood glucose levels; (3) addresses the role of the perceptual feedback loop in the safe and effective use of blood glucose monitoring equipment; and (4) investigates whether glycemic control is affected by perceptual sensitivity or SMBG frequency.