General Patient Monitoring

General monitoring is routine in diabetes to identify and prevent complications.(7,8) Routine measurements will include blood pressure, glycemic control, and physical examination of skin, foot sensation, and an assessment of the eyes.

• Hemoglobin A1c: twice/year or more ◦ % RBC with glucose attached ◦ Average glucose over 2-3 months ◦ Goal is 6-6.5 representing 70-140 mg/dL • Blood pressure: yearly • Lipid levels: yearly • Kidney function: yearly • Ophthalmology: yearly • Dental exam/cleaning: twice/year

Hemoglobin A1c should be checked at least twice per year. This test gives an overview of the average plasma glucose over a period of 2-3 months.

If diabetes is well-controlled, yearly examination of blood pressure, blood lipid levels (includng cholesterol and triglycerides), kidney function (including microalbuminuria and serum creatinine), and an ophthalmoscope exam of the back of the eyes to evaluate for retinopathy.

Twice per year the patient should receive a thorough dental cleaning and examination.

-Gardner