Use of a continuous glucose monitoring device: Perceptions of nursing staff

Abstract

Objective: Wearable continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices, when included in the plan of care for patients in inpatient settings, provides real time blood glucose data. This allows treatment to be proactive and timely. Implementation of these devices alters nursing care. The objective of this study was to describe the perceived barriers and facilitators, from the perspective of direct care providers in an inpatient clinical setting, when the plan of care includes a CGM device.
Methods: Guided by a review of the literature and anecdotal data, a 20-item Likert scaled survey was developed. Once study approval was secured an invitational email was sent to the password protected emails of all potential participants. Frequency and descriptive analyses were used to analyze the responses.
Results: Survey data from 31 direct care providers describe a positive experience specific to the education and resources available. The addition of a CGM device into the plan of care is not perceived to be an additional burden for the provider.
Conclusions: Pre-implementation, appropriate education and exposure to the device is critical for providing confidence and trust. The availability of ongoing support ensures that care is enhanced when a CGM device is included in the plan of care.