Management of diabetes and hyperglycemia in hospitals

Evaluation of a Standardized Sliding Scale Insulin Preprinted Order

Background:

Poor glycemic control is associated with negative outcomes in hospitalized patients with diabetes, both during and beyond their hospital stay. Despite its limitations, adjunct sliding scale insulin (SSI) is often prescribed to manage glucose levels, but the regimens are subject to wide variability and may contribute to medication error.

Objective:

To evaluate diabetic patients' glycemic control and staff acceptability following development and implementation of an SSI preprinted order (PPO).

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of diabetic patients admitted to the adult internal medicine service at a major Canadian teaching hospital was conducted. A convenience sample of patients who received SSI before (n = 60) and after (n = 60) PPO implementation was evaluated for episodes and management of hypo- and hyperglycemia. A survey also was conducted to determine staff perspectives regarding SSI PPO use.

Results:

Thirty-five SSI regimens were identified among the 60 patients in the pre-PPO group. Although no significant difference in the incidence of hypoglycemia was found between groups, more hyperglycemia episodes occurred in the post-PPO group. Glycemic control was poor regardless of the SSI prescribing strategy employed; only half of the measurements in either group were within a 72–198 mg/dL target range. One-third of medical students reported receiving no prior teaching for devising an SSI regimen. Both medical and nursing staff reported increased clarity and ease in administering SSI with use of a PPO. Half of the respondents believed that the potential for medication error was diminished.

Conclusions:

A PPO decreased variability in SSI prescribing but did not improve glycemic control in diabetic patients admitted to internal medicine. Revisions to our documents have been made to address hyperglycemia events and appropriate SSI use to further promote patient safety through standardized prescribing.

Working to improve care of hospital hyperglycemia through statewide collaboration: the Georgia Hospital Association Diabetes Special Interest Group

OBJECTIVE

To review the efforts of the Georgia Hospital Association Diabetes Special Interest Group (DSIG) to develop and disseminate sample clinical guidelines on management of inpatient hyperglycemia.

METHODS

Beginning in February 2003, a consortium of physicians and allied health professionals from throughout the state of Georgia began meeting on a frequent basis to formulate a plan to enhance the care of hospitalized patients with hyperglycemia. The immediate goals of the DSIG were the identification and organization of interested stakeholders, the development of consensus sample clinical guidelines, and the dissemination of information.

RESULTS

Since its inception, the DSIG has accomplished the following: development of 7 consensus sample clinical guidelines, construction of a Web site that posts these clinical guidelines and other useful related information and educational materials, and sponsorship of workshops throughout the state of Georgia.

CONCLUSION

As the importance of glucose control in the hospital setting has become increasingly recognized, institutions must find ways of applying results of clinical trials to "real-world" hospital environments. The DSIG is an example of a successful collaboration that could serve as a model for other state hospital organizations that wish to develop programs to enhance the care of inpatients with hyperglycemia.

In-hospital treatment of hyperglycemia: effects of intensified subcutaneous insulin treatment

BACKGROUND

Hyperglycemia is common in hospitalized patients; however, glycemic control obtained during hospitalization is often suboptimal. No methods for achievement of proper glycemic control in this population have been validated in the in-hospital setting.

AIMS

To study the effect of a novel intensive subcutaneous insulin protocol on the quality of in-hospital glycemic control.

METHODS

Included in this prospective controlled study were all diabetic patients admitted to the internal medicine departments in a tertiary medical center during a 1-year period. The study was divided into pre-intervention (n = 94), intervention (n = 102) and post-intervention (n = 79) periods. During the intervention period all hospitalized diabetic patients with blood glucose > 200 mg/dL were treated with an intensive multi-injection protocol consisting of two or four times daily regular/NPH insulin injections.

RESULTS

Mean glucose level throughout hospitalization was 178.7 +/- 47 mg/dL in the intervention period versus 198.8 +/- 60 mg/dL in the pre-intervention period (p < 0.05). During the intervention period, the difference between mean admission and discharge day glucose levels was 43 mg/dL in patients treated with four times daily insulin injections, in contrast to no change noted in the other treatment groups. During the post-intervention period the rate of implementation of the intensive protocol by the internal medicine teams declined to 47.5%, in contrast to a 78.4% implementation rate during the intervention period. This decline was associated with deterioration of glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of intensified insulin regimen improved the glycemic control of hospitalized diabetic patients. Successful incorporation of such intensive protocols into daily medical routines requires close involvement and continuous physician guidance by the hospital diabetes team.

Intensive insulin therapy in critical care: a review of 12 protocols

OBJECTIVE

To review performance characteristics of 12 insulin infusion protocols.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We systematically identify and compare 12 protocols and then apply the protocols to generate insulin recommendations in the management of a patient with hyperglycemia. The main focus involves a comparison of insulin doses and patterns of insulin administration.

RESULTS

There is great variability in protocols. Areas of variation include differences in initiation and titration of insulin, use of bolus dosing, requirements for calculation in adjustment of the insulin infusion, and method of insulin protocol adjustments. Insulin recommendations for a sample patient are calculated to highlight differences between protocols, including the patterns and ranges of insulin dose recommended (range 27-115 units [mean +/- SD 66.7 +/- 27.9]), amount recommended for glucose readings >200 mg/dl, and adjustments nearing target glucose.

CONCLUSIONS

The lack of consensus in the delivery of intravenous insulin infusions is reflected in the wide variability of practice noted in this survey. This mandates close attention to the choice of a protocol. One protocol may not suffice for all patients.

Implementing an intravenous insulin infusion protocol in the intensive care unit

PURPOSE

The implementation of three different insulin protocols in intensive care unit (ICU) settings in two community hospitals and one academic hospital is described.

SUMMARY

Each institution possessed a commitment to improve the existing insulin protocols in order to achieve tighter glycemic control for ICU patients. Studies have shown that the maintenance of tight glycemic control provides improved patient outcomes. Obstacles to implementation of the insulin protocols at the institutions were increased staff workload, difficulties in interpreting algorithms, and lack of perceived benefit. In comparing details of the insulin protocols at the academic and community hospitals, it was found that differences were influenced by the type of institution. The differences among the institutions in the implementation of the protocols included the initial physician response to the protocol, the details of each protocol, nursing staff autonomy, and the involvement of the nursing staff in early protocol development. All three institutions had a dedicated pharmacist in the ICU who committed time toward insulin protocol implementation. For an increased likelihood of successful insulin protocol implementation, a full-time dedicated ICU pharmacist should be assigned to participate on multidisciplinary rounds, provide nursing support and education, and collect process measures to monitor and improve the protocol.

CONCLUSION

The i.v. insulin infusion protocols developed and implemented in the ICUs at three institutions successfully achieved acceptance and compliance by physicians and nurses. The factors attributed to the success were multidisciplinary involvement, the continuous education of nursing staff, the vigilant involvement of a pharmacist, and flexibility in revising the protocol.

Diabetes mellitus and anesthesia

Diabetes mellitus is an extremely common condition with specific associated comorbidity. Its incidence is rising. Diabetic patients have more perioperative complications than nondiabetic patients. These complications may be related to the presence of organ damage secondary to the diabetes, rather than the defects in carbohydrate metabolism themselves, or to perioperative hyperglycemia. Several new drugs are available for the treatment of diabetes, and these are associated with specific and significant side effects, and varying lengths of action with which the anesthetist should be familiar. Few data are available regarding recommendations for fasting in the presence of these newer drugs. In the postoperative period and during cardiac surgery, hyperglycemia has been shown to be detrimental, and should probably be sought and managed aggressively. The incidence of intraoperative hyperglycemia in noncardiac surgery patients is not as well-defined, nor are the effects of aggressive management.

Intensive insulin therapy in the intensive cardiac care unit

Treatment in the intensive cardiac care unit (ICCU) enables rigorous control of vital parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, oxygen saturation, serum electrolyte levels, urine output and many others. The importance of controlling the metabolic status of the acute cardiac patient and specifically the level of serum glucose was recently put in focus but is still underscored. This review aims to explain the rationale for providing intensive control of serum glucose levels in the ICCU, especially using intensive insulin therapy and summarizes the available clinical evidence suggesting its effectiveness.

Recent progress in analytical instrumentation for glycemic control in diabetic and critically ill patients

Implementing strict glycemic control can reduce the risk of serious complications in both diabetic and critically ill patients. For this reason, many different analytical, mainly electrochemical and optical sensor approaches for glucose measurements have been developed. Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) has been recognised as being an indispensable tool for intensive diabetes therapy. Recent progress in analytical instrumentation, allowing submicroliter samples of blood, alternative site testing, reduced test time, autocalibration, and improved precision, is comprehensively described in this review. Continuous blood glucose monitoring techniques and insulin infusion strategies, developmental steps towards the realization of the dream of an artificial pancreas under closed loop control, are presented. Progress in glucose sensing and glycemic control for both patient groups is discussed by assessing recent published literature (up to 2006). The state-of-the-art and trends in analytical techniques (either episodic, intermittent or continuous, minimal-invasive, or noninvasive) detailed in this review will provide researchers, health professionals and the diabetic community with a comprehensive overview of the potential of next-generation instrumentation suited to either short- and long-term implantation or ex vivo measurement in combination with appropriate body interfaces such as microdialysis catheters.

Hyperglycemia and Mortality in Elderly Patients with Staphylococcus aureus Bacteremia

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between hyperglycemia and in-hospital mortality in elderly patients with Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia (SAB).

METHODS

We reviewed the medical records of 135 elderly patients with SAB admitted to two tertiary medical centers from January 2003 until December 2004. Patients were stratified into two groups: those with a 7-day post-SAB mean blood glucose < 170 mg/dL and those with a 7-day post-SAB mean blood glucose > or = 170 mg/dL. A stepwise logistic regression analysis was performed to determine whether the degree of hyperglycemia was a significant predictor of mortality.

RESULTS

Seventy-four (54.8%) patients had methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus bacteremia. During the follow-up period from admission until discharge, 36 (26.7%) patients died. Twenty-one (21.4%) of 98 patients with a 7-day post-SAB mean blood glucose < 170 mg/dL died, while 15 (40.5%) of 37 patients with a 7-day post-SAB mean blood glucose > or = 170 mg/dL expired. Multivariate analysis identified 3 independent determinants of death: Simplified Acute Physiology Score (SAPS) score at onset of SAB > 45 (OR 5.3, 95% CI {1.8, 15.5}, P = 0.002), a 7-day post-SAB mean blood glucose > or = 170 mg/dL (OR 3.3, 95% CI {1.2, 9.2}, P = 0.03), and altered mental status at the onset of SAB (OR 7.8, 95% CI {2.5, 23.9}, P = 0.0003).

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperglycemia is an important marker of increased mortality among hospitalized elderly patients with SAB.

Bedside monitoring of subcutaneous interstitial glucose in healthy individuals using microdialysis and infrared spectrometry

An IR-spectroscopy-based bedside device, coupled to a subcutaneously implanted microdialysis probe, is developed for quasicontinuous glucose monitoring with intermittent readouts at 10-min intervals, avoiding any sensor recalibration under long-term operation. The simultaneous estimation of the microdialysis recovery rate is possible using an acetate containing perfusate and determining its losses across the dialysis membrane. Measurements are carried out on four subjects, with experiments lasting either 8 or 28 h, respectively. Using the spectral interval data either from 1180 to 950 or 1560 to 1000 cm(-1), standard errors of prediction (SEPs) between 0.13 and 0.28 mM are achieved using multivariate calibration with partial least-squares (PLS) or classical least-squares (CLS) calibration models, respectively. The transfer of a PLS calibration model using the spectral and reference concentration data of the dialysates from the three 8-h-long experiments to a 28-h monitoring episode with another healthy subject is tested. Including microdialysis recovery for the determination of the interstitial glucose concentrations, an SEP of 0.24 mM is obtained versus whole blood glucose values. The option to determine other metabolites such as urea or lactate offers the possibility to develop a calibration- and reagent-free point-of-care analyzer.

Significant insulin dose errors may occur if blood glucose results are obtained from miscoded meters

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine inaccuracies of miscoded blood glucose (BG) meters and potential errors in insulin dose based on values from these meters.

RESEARCH DESIGN

Fasting diabetic subjects at three clinical centers participated in a 2-hour meal tolerance test. At various times subjects' blood was tested on five BG meters and on a Yellow Springs Instruments laboratory glucose analyzer. Some meters were purposely miscoded. Using the BG values from these meters, along with three insulin dose algorithms, Monte Carlo simulations were conducted to generate ideal and simulated-meter glucose values and subsequent probability of insulin dose errors based on normal and empirical distribution assumptions.

RESULTS

Maximal median percentage biases of miscoded meters were +29% and -37%, while maximal median percentage biases of correctly coded meters were only +0.64% and -10.45% (p = 0.000, chi(2) test, df = 1). Using the low-dose algorithm and the normal distribution assumption, the combined data showed that the probability of insulin error of +/-1U, +/-2, +/-3, +/-4, and +/-5U for miscoded meters could be as high as 49.6, 50.0, 22.3, 1.4, and 0.04%, respectively. This is compared to manually, correctly coded meters where the probability of error of +/-1, +/-2, and +/-3U could be as high as 44.6, 7.1, and 0.49%, respectively. There was no instance of a +/-4 or +/-5U insulin dose error with a manually, correctly coded meter. For autocoded meters, the probability of +/-1 and +/-2U could be as high as 35.4 and 1.4%, respectively. For autocoded meters there were no calculated insulin dose errors above +/-2U. The probability of insulin misdosing with either manually, correctly coded or autocoded meters was significantly lower than that with miscoded meters. Results using empirical distributions showed similar trends of insulin dose errors.

CONCLUSIONS

Blood glucose meter coding errors may result in significant insulin dosing errors. To avoid error, patients should be instructed to code their meters correctly or be advised to use an autocoded meter that showed superior performance over manually, correctly coded meters in this study.

Practical aspects of intensive insulinization in the intensive care unit

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Strategies used for intensive insulin therapy of critically ill patients and differences of approach according to medical condition are reviewed.

RECENT FINDINGS

Acceptance of proposed glycemic targets for critically ill patients has been tempered by uncertainties about benefit of strict glycemic control for specific target subpopulations, differences between treatment centers, optimal timing and duration of intervention, and safety. Present-day intravenous insulin infusion protocols may perform well only for restricted populations. Assessment of protocol performance requires knowledge of algorithm behavior on or near the narrow target range and, using the patient as unit of observation, examination of glycemic variability. Systems of the future will permit adjustment of algorithm parameters to meet individual- or population-specific targets and match carbohydrate exposure.

SUMMARY

Attainment and preservation of glycemic control among critically ill patients are best attempted with intravenous insulin infusion. Advances in the design of decision support and insulin delivery systems, and progress in the technology of continuous blood glucose monitoring, are likely to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia, without compromise of target range control, such that the patient outcomes enjoyed by experienced centers in the future will prove generalizable to others through the extension of new technologies.

Inpatient management of diabetes and hyperglycemia: implications for nutrition practice and the food and nutrition professional

Although numerous guidelines and standards address the management of diabetes in outpatient settings, only recently has evidence been provided to issue standards of care to guide clinicians in optimal inpatient glycemic control for hospitalized individuals with diabetes or illness-induced hyperglycemia. Both the American Diabetes Association and the American College of Endocrinology recommend critically ill patients keep their blood glucose level as close to 110 mg/dL (6.1 mmol/L) as possible. In the noncritically ill patient, the American Diabetes Association recommends to keep pre-meal blood glucose as close to 90 to 130 mg/dL (5.0 to 7.2 mmol/L) as possible, whereas the American College of Endocrinology recommends pre-meal blood glucose be kept at 110 mg/dL (6.1 mmol/L) or less. Both organizations agree that peak post-prandial blood glucose should be 180 mg/dL (10.0 mmol/L) or less. Recent evidence has also led the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations to develop standards for a voluntary certification in the management of the patient with diabetes in the inpatient setting. It is important that food and nutrition professionals familiarize themselves with these recommendations and implement nutrition interventions in collaboration with other members of the health care team to achieve these new glycemic control targets. Food and nutrition professionals have a key role in developing screening tools, and in implementing nutrition care guidelines, nutrition interventions, and medical treatment protocols needed to improve inpatient glycemic control.

The medical emergency team and rapid response system: finding, treating, and preventing hypoglycemia

Administrative and quality improvement processes that occurred in response to one patient's series of critical hypoglycemic events ultimately contributed to systematic improvements in patient safety.

Management of Inpatient Hyperglycemia: Assessing Perceptions and Barriers to Care Among Resident Physicians

OBJECTIVE

To develop insight into resident physician attitudes about inpatient hyperglycemia and determine perceived barriers to optimal management.

METHODS

As part of a planned educational program, a questionnaire was designed and administered to determine the opinions of residents about the importance of inpatient glucose control, their perceptions about what glucose ranges were desirable, and the problems they encountered when trying to manage hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients.

RESULTS

Of 70 resident physicians from various services, 52 completed the survey (mean age, 31 years; 48% men; 37% in first year of residency training). Most respondents indicated that glucose control was "very important" in critically ill and perioperative patients but only "somewhat important" in non-critically ill patients. Most residents indicated that they would target a therapeutic glucose range within the recommended levels in published guidelines. Most residents also said they felt "somewhat comfortable" managing hyperglycemia and hypoglycemia and using subcutaneous insulin therapy, whereas most residents (48%) were "not at all comfortable" with use of intravenous administration of insulin. In general, respondents were not very familiar with existing institutional policies and preprinted order sets relating to glucose management. The most commonly reported barrier to management of inpatient hyperglycemia was lack of knowledge about appropriate insulin regimens and how to use them. Anxiety about hypoglycemia was only the third most frequent concern.

CONCLUSION

Most residents acknowledged the importance of good glucose control in hospitalized patients and chose target glucose ranges consistent with existing guidelines. Lack of knowledge about insulin treatment options was the most commonly cited barrier to ideal management. Educational programs should emphasize inpatient treatment strategies for glycemic control.

Management of Diabetes in Older Adults

Enhanced life expectancy and the aging of society have conspired with rising rates of obesity and physical inactivity to cause an unprecedented increase in diabetes prevalence worldwide. The disease and its chronic complications have unique presentations and challenges in the elderly. Postprandial hyperglycemia may be the predominant manifestation, comorbid health conditions are often present, and the risk of cardiovascular disease is vastly increased. Periodic screening is essential for early diagnosis and proper treatment. The principles of multidisciplinary management emphasizing nutrition, exercise, education, psychosocial care, attention to concomitant metabolic risk factors, and prudent use of pharmacologic agents are the mainstay of therapy for older adults. Treatment should be tailored to the individual patient, and the assistance of family and caregivers should be combined with rational utilization of community resources. An evidence-based, comprehensive, and proactive approach is needed to reduce the burden of morbidity and mortality from diabetes in the elderly.

Influence of perioperative blood glucose levels on outcome after infrainguinal bypass surgery in patients with diabetes

BACKGROUND

High glucose levels are associated with increased morbidity and mortality after coronary surgery and in intensive care. The influence of perioperative hyperglycaemia on the outcome after infrainguinal bypass surgery among diabetic patients is largely unknown. The aim was to determine whether high perioperative glucose levels were associated with increased morbidity after infrainguinal bypass surgery.

METHODS

Ninety-one consecutive diabetic patients undergoing primary infrainguinal bypass surgery were identified from a prospective vascular registry. Risk factors, indication for surgery, operative details and outcome data were extracted from the medical records. Exposure to perioperative hyperglycaemia was measured using the area under the curve (AUC) method; the AUC was calculated using all blood glucose readings during the first 48 h after surgery.

RESULTS

Multivariable analysis showed that the AUC for glucose (odds ratio (OR) 13.35, first versus fourth quartile), renal insufficiency (OR 4.77) and infected foot ulcer (OR 3.38) was significantly associated with poor outcome (death, major amputation or graft occlusion at 90 days). Similarly, the AUC for glucose (OR 14.45, first versus fourth quartile), female sex (OR 3.49) and tissue loss as indication (OR 3.30) was associated with surgical wound complications at 30 days.

CONCLUSION

Poor perioperative glycaemic control was associated with an unfavourable outcome after infrainguinal bypass surgery in diabetic patients.

Diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease

Cardiovascular diseases include hypertension, coronary heart disease, acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, sudden death, peripheral vascular disease, and stroke. The high risk of cardiovascular disease in individuals with diabetes was recognized more than 30 years ago. Appreciation of the multiple risk factors and complex pathophysiologic process responsible for cardiovascular disease in individuals with both type 1 and 2 diabetes is critical for the prevention, early detection, and management of cardiovascular disease in this population. The focus of this article is on the acute and chronic manifestations of coronary heart disease.

Comparison of once-daily glargine insulin with twice-daily NPH/regular insulin for control of hyperglycemia in inpatients after cardiovascular surgery

BACKGROUND

Traditionally hyperglycemia in surgical inpatients has been managed with six-hourly sliding-scale regular insulin. However, this approach is usually ineffective in preventing hyperglycemia since no basal insulin is provided. We compared glycemic control using NPH and regular insulin versus glargine insulin alone in patients after cardiovascular surgery on a general surgical ward.

METHODS

Ninety-four hyperglycemic patients were randomized to subcutaneous insulin using twice-daily NPH/regular or once-daily glargine if they required at least 1 unit/h of intravenous insulin at the time of transfer from the ICU. NPH/regular was adjusted twice daily; glargine was adjusted once daily. Blood glucose was measured four times daily and targeted to 80-140 mg/dL.

RESULTS

The mean blood glucose after NPH/regular (124 mg/dL) and glargine (131 mg/dL) was similar (P = 0.065). In the subgroup of patients with a history of diabetes, mean blood glucose was significantly lower after NPH/regular (133 mg/dL) versus glargine (154 mg/dL) (P = 0.016). Blood glucose less than 60 mg/dL was significantly less common after glargine (0.5%) as compared with NPH/regular (2%) (P = 0.036).

CONCLUSIONS

Once-daily glargine insulin provides good glycemic control in hyperglycemic patients after cardiovascular surgery. Although twice-daily NPH/regular insulin provided better control than glargine insulin monotherapy, the simplicity and safety of glargine insulin make it an attractive option for the management of postoperative hyperglycemia. Patients with established diabetes will achieve better glucose control with NPH/regular insulin as compared with glargine but have a higher incidence of hypoglycemia.

The Transition from Insulin Infusions to Long-Term Diabetes Therapy: The Argument for Insulin Analogs

After cardiac surgery, it is medical mismanagement to place an order for sliding scale insulin at the time of transitioning from intravenous insulin. Use of basal-prandial-correction therapy with insulin analogs constitutes a suitable transitioning regimen for inpatient management of hyperglycemia after heart surgery, to be ordered before interruption of intravenous insulin infusion, in conjunction with a program of blood glucose monitoring before meals, at bedtime, and midsleep. In the ambulatory setting, in comparison to neutral protamine Hagedorn, long-acting insulin analogs reduce hypoglycemia. In comparison to regular insulin, rapid-acting insulin analogs reduce hypoglycemia and improve postprandial control. A standardized approach to order entry for basal-prandial-correction therapy enhances safety and staff familiarity while preserving individualization of patient care. Proposed predictors of successful transition are described. Dose requirements during intravenous insulin infusion can be used to guide initial dose assignments of basal insulin therapy. As the patient approaches discharge, the total daily doses of subcutaneous insulin and basal insulin dose are decreased, and the proportion of prandial insulin approaches or exceeds 50% of the total daily dose as the absolute amount of prandial insulin increases. Before discharge, hyperglycemic patients not known to have diabetes should be advised of the need for outpatient reassessment, and those known to have diabetes but requiring intensification of therapy should participate in decision-making concerning their options for intensified treatment.

Assessment of and physician response to glycemic control in diabetic patients presenting with an acute coronary syndrome

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common comorbidity among patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). The frequency with which physicians assess diabetic patients' glycemic control during an ACS hospitalization is not known and may represent an opportunity for quality improvement.

METHODS

This study describes the proportion of diabetic patients who had an assessment of their glycemic control (HbA1c) at the time of an ACS hospitalization. Secondary analyses examined characteristics associated with HbA1c assessment and physicians' responses to poor glycemic control.

RESULTS

Among 968 enrolled patients with ACS, 235 (24%) had DM. HbA1c values were known or obtained in 162 (69%) patients; 60% were poorly controlled (HbA1c > 7). Older patients were less likely to have an HbA1c assessment (relative risk [RR] = 0.81 [95% CI 0.64-1.01] for patients 60-69 years and RR = 0.71 [95% CI 0.58-0.88] for those > or = 70 years compared to patients < 60 years, P = .004). Among patients without an HbA1c, only consultation by an endocrinologist was independently associated with obtaining a subsequent assessment (RR 1.60, 95% CI 1.33-1.92, P < .001). Among those with an elevated HbA1c, 42% with an HbA1c of 7 to 9 and 69% of those with HbA1c > 9 had their diabetic regimen increased.

CONCLUSIONS

Almost one third of diabetic patients with ACS do not have HbA1c assessment at discharge; particularly older patients and those not evaluated by an endocrinologist. Although > 60% of those assessed had poor control, many did not have adjustments of their diabetic therapy. Assessment of diabetes represents an opportunity to improve the quality of care for diabetic patients with ACS.

Inpatient management of hyperglycemia: the Northwestern experience

OBJECTIVE

To describe a novel method of safe and effective intensive management of inpatient hyperglycemia with use of cost-effective protocols directed by a glucose management service (GMS).

METHODS

An intravenous insulin protocol was designed to achieve a glycemic target of 80 to 110 mg/dL. When stable inpatients were transferred from the intravenous protocol to a subcutaneous insulin protocol, which consisted of basal long-acting and prandial and supplemental rapid-acting insulins, the blood glucose target was 80 to 150 mg/dL. Glucose levels were reviewed by the GMS at least daily for protocol adjustments, when necessary.

RESULTS

The intravenous insulin protocol was used in 276 patients, and 4,058 capillary blood glucose levels were recorded. Glycemic target levels (80 to 110 mg/dL) were achieved, on average, 10.6 +/- 5.2 hours after initiation of insulin drip therapy. The mean capillary blood glucose level during the study interval was 135.3 +/- 49.9 mg/dL. Hypoglycemia (< or = 60 mg/dL) was recorded in 1.5% of glucose values, and hyperglycemia (> or = 400 mg/dL) was recorded in only 0.06%. The subcutaneous insulin protocol was used in 922 patients, and 18,067 capillary glucose levels were documented. The mean blood glucose level was 145.6 +/- 55.8 mg/dL during the study period. The blood glucose target of 80 to 150 mg/dL was achieved in 58.6%, whereas 74.3% of glycemic values were in the clinically acceptable range (80 to 180 mg/dL). Hypoglycemia (< or = 60 mg/dL) occurred in 1.3% of capillary blood glucose values, and hyperglycemia (> or = 400 mg/dL) occurred in 0.4% of values.

CONCLUSION

Validated protocols dedicated to the achievement of strict glycemic goals were implemented by a GMS and resulted in substantial improvements in glycemic control on the surgical inpatient services, with a reduced frequency of hypoglycemia. The protocols and the GMS have been well received by the inpatient nursing and surgical staff members, and all of this has been done in a cost-effective manner.

Prevalence and predictors of corticosteroid-related hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the prevalence of and risk factors for hyperglycemia in hospitalized patients receiving corticosteroids, which have been identified as an independent predictor of hyperglycemia.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of electronic medical records of patients admitted to the general medicine service at a university hospital during a 1-month period. Pharmacy charges were used to identify patients receiving high doses (> or = 40 mg/day of prednisone or the equivalent) of corticosteroids for at least 2 days. Occurrence of hyperglycemia and the presence of risk factors, including history of diabetes, duration of corticosteroid therapy, concurrent parenteral nutrition, antibiotic therapy, use of medications associated with hyperglycemia, severity of illness scores, and hospital length of stay, were determined. Patients experiencing multiple episodes of hyperglycemia (glucose levels > or = 200 mg/dL) were compared with those who had < or = 1 hyperglycemic episode. Patients without a history of diabetes were assessed separately.

RESULTS

During the 1-month study period, 66 of 617 patients received high doses of corticosteroids, but only 50 of the 66 had glucose measurements. Hyperglycemia was documented in 32 of these 50 patients (64%), and multiple hyperglycemic episodes occurred in 26 (52%). A history of diabetes was documented in 12 of 26 patients who experienced multiple episodes, in comparison with 4 of 24 patients with < or = 1 episode of hyperglycemia (P = 0.035). Among patients without a history of diabetes, 19 of 34 (56%) had hyperglycemia at least once. Patients with multiple episodes of hyperglycemia had more comorbid diseases, longer duration of corticosteroid therapy, and longer duration of hospital stay.

CONCLUSION

Hyperglycemia occurs in a majority of hospitalized patients receiving high doses of corticosteroids. In light of the poor outcomes associated with hyperglycemia, protocols targeting its detection and management should be available for patients who receive corticosteroid therapy.

Management of Diabetes Mellitus in Hospitalized Patients: Efficiency and Effectiveness of Sliding-Scale Insulin Therapy

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To determine the efficiency and effectiveness of current prescribing practices relative to short- and intermediate-acting insulins in the prevention or treatment of acute hyperglycemic episodes in hospitalized patients with diabetes mellitus or hyperglycemia, and to identify clinical findings that influence the effectiveness of insulin therapy in these patients.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational study.

SETTING

University-affiliated hospital.

PATIENTS

Ninety consecutive adult inpatients who had orders placed for as-needed subcutaneous regular or lispro sliding-scale insulin.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Medical records were reviewed for patients' clinical characteristics and responses to administered insulin that were recorded during each of the first 5 days of hospitalization in which sliding-scale insulin therapy was used. Despite the immediate or bedside availability of both computerized and manual means to record finger-stick blood glucose levels and insulin injections, uncertainties or missing information related to execution, timing, blood glucose levels, or insulin dose were present in approximately 30% of all anticipated points of care involving insulin. Ten episodes of hypoglycemia in six patients were associated with sliding-scale insulin. Appropriately timed, successive glucose measurements documented a decrement in elevated blood glucose values to within the target range of 90-130 mg/dl after 76 (12%) of 621 sliding-scale insulin injections. Glucose levels remained elevated, and insulin effects were therefore subtherapeutic after 523 injections (84%). Despite blood glucose levels that remained persistently elevated, corresponding adjustments in either the timing or the dose of insulin were made infrequently. Sliding-scale insulin regimens were never adjusted in 73 patients (81%). Through 5 days of therapy, the proportion of patients who attained good glycemic control ranged from 2-10% (mean 6%). The mode of overall glycemic control was poor, with 51-68% of patients in this category on any given day. Overall, treated diabetic and hyperglycemic patients were more likely to be poorly controlled than relatively well controlled.

CONCLUSION

Our findings reveal outcomes associated with sliding-scale insulin that are widely variable, often ineffectual, and prone to deficiencies in monitoring, documentation, and prescribing soundness. Efforts to improve glycemic control in hospitalized patients are clearly needed.

"Glucometrics"--assessing the quality of inpatient glucose management

BACKGROUND

For patients with diabetes, the quality of outpatient glycemic control is readily assessed by hemoglobin A1c. In contrast, standardized measures for assessing the quality of blood glucose (BG) management in hospitalized patients are lacking. Because of recent studies demonstrating the benefits of strict glycemic control in critically ill patients, hospitals nationwide are dedicating resources to address this important issue. To facilitate advances in this nascent field, standardized metrics for inpatient glycemic control should be developed and validated.

METHODS

We used 1 month of fingerstick BG levels from a general hospital ward to develop and test three analytic models, based on three units of inpatient BG analysis: population (i.e., ward), patient-day, and patient. To assess the effect of the source of blood samples, we repeated these analyses after adding venous plasma glucose levels. Finally, we employed an idealized intensive care unit data set to establish "gold standard" metrics for inpatient glycemic control.

RESULTS

Mean and median BG levels and the proportion of BG levels within an "optimal" range (80-139 mg/dL) were similar among the three models, whereas hypoglycemic and hyperglycemic event rates varied considerably. Inclusion of venous glucose levels did not substantially affect the results. Of the three models tested, the patient-day model appears to most faithfully reflect the quality of inpatient glycemic control. Achieving 85% of BG levels within optimal range may be considered gold standard.

CONCLUSIONS

If validated elsewhere, these "glucometrics" would permit objective comparisons of inpatient glycemic control among hospitals and patient care units, and would allow institutions to gauge the success of their quality improvement initiatives.

Evaluation of a new blood glucose monitoring system with auto-calibration for home and hospital bedside use

A new self-calibrating blood glucose monitoring system (BGMS) was evaluated in a series of clinical studies with both ambulatory subjects and with hospitalized patients. The new BGMS requires a 0.6microL sample volume, provides results in 15s, and uses a glucose dehydrogenase chemistry that is oxygen independent. In the first study, Ascensia Contour meters calibrated to whole blood were tested by health care professionals (HCP) and lay users at two clinical sites. Both HCPs and lay users obtained results that fulfilled the ISO 15197:2003 criteria that 95% of self-monitoring blood glucose (SMBG) measurements should fall within +/-20% (for blood glucose (BG) concentrations> or =4.2mmol/L or +/-0.83mmol/L for BG concentrations<4.2mmol/L) of the laboratory value. Lay users and HCPs obtained 97.2 and 96.7% of glucose results within ISO criteria, respectively. In a second study, HCPs assayed blood samples from patients at the hospital bedside using meters calibrated to give whole blood glucose and meters calibrated to give plasma glucose results. Overall, 94.7% of the measurements met the ISO 15197:2003 criteria. Most lay subjects rated the BGMS as either excellent or very good in a questionnaire, and were able to use it properly without training. These findings indicate that this new BGMS is a convenient and accurate instrument system suitable for both hospital bedside use by HCPs and for SMBG by people who routinely monitor their blood glucose.

Hyperglycemia during critical illness

BACKGROUND

We sought to review the literature describing the benefits of tight glycemic control in critically ill patients, comparing outcome differences in subgroup populations.

METHODS

We searched PubMed for relevant literature on the topic of hyperglycemia and its management in the intensive care unit.

RESULTS

Overwhelming evidence in both surgical and medical patients conclusively demonstrates that hyperglycemia is a marker of severity of illness and is also an independent determinant of bad outcome, largely from infectious complications. Randomized trial evidence, in conjunction with historically controlled trials, supports the use of intensive insulin therapy and euglycemic control in critically ill patients, with nondiabetics possibly benefiting even more than diabetic patients. Euglycemia is best achieved, and hypoglycemia attenuated, through use of a protocolized approach. Further elaboration as to what threshold range defines euglycemia in patient subpopulations is needed and what pitfalls must be avoided in this practice. Development of continuous blood glucose monitoring has started and will someday be incorporated into routine practice in the same way that continuous electrocardiographic monitoring and pulse oximetry are standards of care in the intensive care unit.

CONCLUSIONS

Hyperglycemia is a predictor of death and complications in critically ill patients. Early aggregated study results show that control of hyperglycemia improves outcomes. Well-designed studies involving thousands of patients have started to better elucidate the concomitant promoters of hyperglycemia and to better quantify the benefits from tight glycemic control.

Efficacy of short term continuous subcutaneous insulin lispro versus continuous intravenous regular insulin in poorly controlled, hospitalized, type 2 diabetic patients

Intravenous insulin infusion (IVII) is rapidly effective in improving glycaemia in uncontrolled hospitalized diabetic patients. This significantly improves their morbidity and mortality. Intravenous insulin infusion may lead to IV infusion complications and is a heavy burden for caregivers.

AIM

The aim of our work was to compare the efficacy of IV regular insulin versus lispro Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion (CSII), in improving glycaemia in patients hospitalized for uncontrolled type 2 diabetes, the efficacy being assessed on the average blood glucose level observed.

METHODS

The study was designed as a prospective randomized study. Thirty-three type 2 diabetic patients, hospitalized for uncontrolled diabetes by their usual practitioner were included. After acceptation, patients were randomly assigned to lispro CSII (group 1, n=20) or IVII regular insulin (group 2, n=13) for 5 days. Ten capillary blood glucose/day were performed. Pre-meal blood glucose targets were 4.4-6.6 mmol/l. Mann Whitney, Wilcoxon and Fischer exact tests were used.

RESULTS

BG levels decreased significantly (-3.4+/-0.55 mmol/l in group 1 and -3.60+/-0.55 mmol/l in group 2, P<0.01) during the first 12 hours. Mean daily blood glucose at day 5 was statistically improved in both groups compared to day 1 (P<0.05 Wilcoxon) and comparable between the 2 groups. No severe hypoglycaemia was reported. No catheter complications occurred in group 1, 7 occurred in group 2.

CONCLUSION

CSII and IVII infusion were comparable in rapidly improving hyperglycaemia in uncontrolled type 2 diabetic patients. CSII, being more convenient, could be preferred in medical and surgical settings.

Evidence-based sepsis therapy: a hospitalist perspective

BACKGROUND

Severe sepsis and septic shock are common and associated with a 30-50% mortality rate. Evidence-based therapies for severe sepsis supported by international critical care and infectious disease societies exist, but are inconsistently employed.

METHODS

The epidemiology and definitions of sepsis syndromes are reviewed; sepsis therapies supported by definitive studies in the field, along with the supporting literature, are summarized and presented from a hospitalist perspective.

CONCLUSIONS

Compelling observational data supports the importance of early, effective antibiotics. Well-designed randomized controlled trials and/or meta-analyses demonstrate the impact of activated protein C, early goal-directed therapy, stress-dose steroids, and intensive insulin in well-defined subgroups of patients. These therapies reduce the absolute mortality risk associated with severe sepsis by 9.5-16%; the corresponding numbers needed to treat to save one life are 6.25-10.5. While major trials are ongoing and the evidence for several sepsis therapies are limited to single trials, the available evidence indicates that appropriate use of these treatments can substantially reduce mortality from severe sepsis.

Trends in bed occupancy for inpatients with diabetes before and after the introduction of a diabetes inpatient specialist nurse service

AIMS

To compare diabetes bed occupancy and inpatient length of stay, before and after the introduction of a dedicated diabetes inpatient specialist nurse (DISN) service in a large UK Hospital.

METHODS

We analysed bed occupancy data for medical or surgical inpatients for 6 years (1998-2004 inclusive), with a DISN service in the final 2 years. Excess bed days per diabetes patient were derived from age band, specialty, and seasonally matched data for all inpatients without diabetes. We also analysed the number of inpatients with known diabetes who did not have diabetes recorded as a discharge diagnosis.

RESULTS

There were 14,722 patients with diabetes (9.7% of all inpatients) who accounted for 101 564 occupied bed days (12.4% of total). Of these, 18 161 days (17.8%) were excess compared with matched patients without diabetes, and were concentrated in those < 75 years old. Mean excess bed days per diabetes inpatient under 60 years of age was estimated to be 1.9 days before the DISN appointment, and this was reduced to 1.2 bed days after the appointment (P = 0.03). This is equivalent to 700 bed days saved per year per 1000 inpatients with diabetes under 60 years old, with an identical saving for those aged 61-75 years (P = 0.008), a saving of 1330 diabetes bed days per year by one DISN. Excess diabetes bed occupancy was 167 excess bed days per year per 1000 patients with diabetes in the local population after the DISN appointment. One quarter of the known Type 2 diabetes population were admitted annually, but one quarter of patients had no diagnostic code for diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes excess bed occupancy was concentrated in patients < 75 years old, and this was reduced notably following the introduction of a DISN service.

[Hyperglycemia and acute illness]

Hyperglycemia due to acute illness is frequently observed in non-diabetic patients. Considered as a physiological response to inflammation, it has now been shown to be an independent factor of morbid-mortality in critically ill patients. Hyperglycemia reduces the immune system response to aggression by decreasing the efficacy of some complement factors and polynuclear cells chemotactism and phagocytosis and by increasing the inflammatory response (cytokines, NF-kB and CRP). Glycemia near normalization using intensive insulin therapy significantly improves mortality and morbidity in several critical illnesses such as cardiac or infectious diseases. This improvement is probably due to the neutralization of deleterious effects caused by hyperglycemia and to the specific actions of insulin on the inflammatory response. Except for ICU patients, precise management protocols of hyperglycemia due to acute illness remain to be proposed and evaluated in clinical practice.