An Evaluation of the Quality and Reliability of YouTube Videos on CGM System Installation and Replacement

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to evaluate the quality, reliability, and informational adequacy of YouTube videos related to the installation and replacement of continuous glucose monitor (CGM) systems.

Methods

This descriptive and correlational study evaluated 460 videos retrieved using the keywords “CGM installation” and “CGM replacement” and analyzed 35 videos that met the inclusion criteria. Videos were assessed using 3 tools: the DISCERN instrument, the Global Quality Scale (GQS), and the 24-item CGM Informational Survey (CIS) developed by the researchers.

Results

The majority of videos (80%) were user-generated, and only 2.9% were uploaded by health care professionals. The average GQS score was 2.80, DISCERN 34.57, and CIS 11.86, indicating moderate to low quality and informativeness. Video duration showed strong positive correlations with CIS (r = .80), DISCERN (r = .64), and GQS (r = .71) scores (P < .001). Videos with high information scores were significantly longer and more comprehensive than low-scoring ones. No significant correlation was found between follower count and content quality. The most frequently shared YouTube videos were related to the Dexcom CGM System (34.3%) and the FreeStyle Libre CGM System (25.7%).

Conclusions

YouTube videos related to CGM installation and replacement are largely insufficient in terms of medical accuracy and completeness. Given the growing reliance on digital health information, it is essential for health care professionals to produce accurate, standardized, and accessible video content to support safe diabetes self-management and improve public health literacy.