Monitor Your Health at Home
Reading the results from home care monitoring devices can vary depending on the specific device and the data it provides. However, here are some general guidelines on how to interpret the results from common home care monitoring devices:
I. Blood Pressure Monitors
Blood Pressure: A normal blood pressure reading is around 120/80 mmHg. The top number (systolic) represents the pressure when the heart contracts, and the bottom number (diastolic) represents the pressure when the heart relaxes.
High blood pressure (hypertension) or low blood pressure (hypotension) may require further attention and medical advice.
II. Glucose Monitors
Blood Glucose Levels: For a person without diabetes, throughout the day blood glucose levels (BGLs) will generally range between 4.0 – 7.8 millimoles of glucose per litre of blood (mmols/L) regardless of how they eat or exercise, or what stress they’re under.
For individuals with diabetes, the target blood glucose range may vary based on factors like age and overall health. The following information serves as a general guideline for target blood glucose levels before and after meals.
Type 1 Diabetes:
- Before meals: 4.0 to 6.0mmol/L
- 2 hours after starting meals: 4.0 to 8.0mmol/L
Type 2 Diabetes:
- Before meals: 4.0 to 7.0mmol/L (Preprandial blood glucose)
- 2 hours after starting meals: 5.0 to 10mmol/L (Postprandial blood glucose)
III. Smartwatches and Fitness Trackers
a. Heart Rate: A normal resting heart rate for adults is typically between 60-100 beats per minute (bpm). If the reading is consistently outside this range, it may be worth investigating further.
b. Sleep Monitoring: This provides insights into sleep duration and sleep patterns. Ensure you are getting enough restful sleep, as recommended for your age group.
c. Activity Tracking: Tracks daily physical activity levels, steps taken, and active minutes. Aim to achieve the recommended daily activity goals.
IV. Pulse Oximeters
Oxygen Saturation: A normal oxygen saturation level is usually above 95%. Levels below this range may indicate potential respiratory or circulatory issues.
V. Digital Thermometers
Body Temperature: Normal body temperature is around 98.6°F (37°C). Fever is generally considered to be a temperature of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher.
VI. Weight Scales
Body Weight: Interpretation of body weight depends on various factors, including age, height, and body composition. It's essential to discuss weight changes with a healthcare provider.
VII. Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) Devices
These devices may provide multiple readings like blood pressure, glucose levels, weight, etc. Follow the specific guidelines for interpreting each parameter based on normal ranges or target values.
VIII. Medication Management Devices
Follow the device's instructions to ensure you are taking the right medication at the correct dosage and time.
IX. Home Safety Monitoring Systems:
Alerts: Pay attention to any alerts or notifications received from the system. They may indicate potential safety concerns or emergencies.
It's crucial to understand the normal ranges for each parameter or condition being monitored and to compare the results to these values. Monitoring devices are meant to be supportive tools, but they do not replace professional medical advice and diagnosis. If you have concerns or questions about the readings, consult with a healthcare professional or the device manufacturer for proper guidance and interpretation.
Home Care Monitoring Devices are available at medcart.com.au
References:
- Better Health Channel. (n.d.). Blood Pressure. Retrieved from https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/blood-pressure
- Diabetes Australia. (n.d.). Blood Glucose Level Range. Retrieved from https://www.diabetesaustralia.com.au/managing-diabetes/blood-glucose-range/
- Healthline. (n.d.). Pulse Oximetry Readings. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/health/pulse-oximetry#readings
- Health Direct. (n.d.). What is a Fever? Retrieved from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/fever
- Health Direct. (n.d.). What is a normal resting heart rate? Retrieved from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/resting-heart-rate
