Diabetes is a chronic disease that is prevalent among aging adults, particularly those in nursing homes. Nursing homes provide specialized care for patients with diabetes, but managing their glucose levels is extremely challenging.

The risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is high among elderly patients. DKA occurs when the body does not have enough insulin, which leads to high blood sugar levels, causing severe dehydration, and ultimately leading to ketone body accumulation.

This article will discuss how the Freestyle Libre can lower incidences of DKA in nursing homes.

What is Freestyle Libre?

Freestyle Libre is a glucose monitoring system that uses a small sensor placed on the back of the patient’s arm to track blood sugar levels. The device is easy to use, discreet, and provides accurate results.

It does not require calibration, and the patient can easily check their glucose levels multiple times a day without pricking their fingers.

Benefits of Freestyle Libre in Nursing Homes

Nursing home residents with diabetes require continuous monitoring of their glucose levels to prevent complications such as DKA.

However, traditional glucose monitoring methods are time-consuming and invasive, which can be challenging for nursing home staff to manage. The use of Freestyle Libre can offer several benefits for patients in nursing homes:.

1. Improved Glucose Control

Freestyle Libre allows patients to monitor their glucose levels frequently, which helps them to make informed decisions about their diet, medications, and daily activities.

The device helps in maintaining blood sugar levels in the target range, which reduces the risk of hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia.

2. Non-Invasive Method

Freestyle Libre eliminates the need for finger pricks, which can be challenging for nursing home staff to manage, particularly for patients with fragile skin.

The device is placed on the back of the arm and does not require the patient to prick their fingers, which reduces discomfort and increases compliance.

3. Cost-Effective

Freestyle Libre is a cost-effective glucose monitoring system compared to traditional glucose monitoring techniques.

The device can last up to 14 days and does not require a disposable sensor, which reduces the cost of glucose monitoring in nursing homes.

4. Easy to Use

Freestyle Libre is easy to use, even for patients with visual or hearing impairments. The device has a large display, and the readings are spoken aloud, which is helpful for patients with vision or hearing loss.

The device also has a mobile app that allows caregivers to monitor their patients’ glucose levels remotely.

5. Lower Risk of Diabetic Ketoacidosis

Freestyle Libre can lower the incidence of DKA in nursing homes. The device alerts patients when their glucose levels are too high or low, allowing them to take action before their condition worsens.

The device can also send alerts to caregivers, allowing them to intervene before severe complications occur.

Conclusion

Freestyle Libre is a game-changer in managing glucose levels for nursing home residents with diabetes.

The device offers several benefits, including improved glucose control, non-invasive method, cost-effectiveness, ease of use, and lower risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. Nursing homes can benefit significantly from incorporating the Freestyle Libre into their diabetes management protocols.