Continuous glucose monitoring in the hospital: an update in the era of COVID-19

Abstract

Purpose of review 

Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) systems are Food and Drug Administration approved devices for the ambulatory setting; however, they remain investigational systems for inpatient use. This review summarizes the most recent and relevant literature on the use of continuous glucose monitoring in the hospital setting.

Recent findings 

CGM provides real-time glucose data that enable healthcare professionals to make proactive and timelier clinical decisions with regards to diabetes management. CGM devices appear to be safe and accurate systems for glucose monitoring in the hospital setting. Real-time CGM systems and glucose telemetry can decrease hypoglycemia and reduce hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients with diabetes. Remote glucose monitoring decreases the need of frequent Point-of-care checks and personal protective equipment use while also mitigating staff exposure risk which is timely in the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic. Although most nursing staff have limited exposure and training on CGM technology, early studies show that CGM use in the hospital is well received by nurses.

Summary 

Given the evidence in the current literature regarding CGM use in the hospital, CGM devices may be incorporated in the inpatient setting.