DATA MANAGEMENT PROGRAMS FOR BEDSIDE GLUCOSE TESTING

Point-of-care testing programs are proliferating in hospitals because they can positively impact patient outcome. This point is best illustrated by nonlaboratory personnel performing glucose testing on nursing stations by using reflectance meters. To assist in the management of quality control and quality assurance data generated by such a program, four manufacturers offer data management options with six glucose meters. System features vary, but they all generally organize the data required by regulatory organizations. Future systems may include glucose testing among the battery of tests to be performed at the patient's bedside. Information gathered at the bedside could be transmitted to a laboratory information system via an infrared signal with software capable of managing this data. This is the first article of a two-part continuing education series on bedside testing. The second article will focus on hematology systems, and will be accompanied by the exam for CMLE credit in the January 1995 issue.