Background: Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is essential for optimal
self-management of glycemic control. Objective: To assess diabetic patients
and caregivers of diabetic patients' practices and satisfaction with SMBG
usage in Saudi Arabia. Methods: Data was anonymously collected from
participants across Saudi Arabia using a pretested questionnaire. Practices,
experiences and satisfactions related to SMBG usage among diabetic patients
and caregivers of diabetic patients were recorded. A modified version of the
CGM Satisfaction Scale (CGM-SAT), which had 18 items, was used to record
satisfaction regarding SMBG usage. All the data obtained data were tabulated
and subjected to appropriate statistical analysis. Results: The majority of the
diabetic patients demonstrated good satisfaction and the mean satisfaction
score was found to be 74.0 ± 8.5 (maximum=90). No statistically significant
differences were seen in satisfaction scores between the two genders and
nationalities (p>0.05). However, satisfaction was significantly higher among
those who used SMBG more than once a day (p=0.029), those who were on
anti-diabetic medication (p=0.004) and those who were on insulin injection
(p=0.041). Conclusion: Better self-glucose monitoring experiences are necessary
for good treatment of patients with any type of diabetes and patient
satisfaction is becoming increasingly important and widely recognized as a
vital indicator of the quality of the healthcare system.
Keywords: Hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, self-care, glucose monitoring