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10-05-2017 | Hypoglycemia | Review | Article

A Systematic Approach for the Prevention and Reduction of Hypoglycemia in Hospitalized Patients

Journal: Current Diabetes Reports

Authors: Paulina Cruz, Mary Clare Blackburn, Garry S. Tobin

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Hypoglycemia and severe hypoglycemia (SH) in the inpatient setting are associated with poor outcomes. This review is designed to highlight approaches to predict and prevent inpatient hypoglycemia that has been successfully implemented focusing on developing overlapping policies and procedures that allow safe glycemic management to occur at all levels of the institution.

Recent Findings

Standardizing point-of-care (POC) testing, nursing protocols, meal delivery, and formulary restriction are useful tools to prevent hypoglycemia. Informatics and real-time alert processes are highly effective tools to reduce hypoglycemia but require a significant investment in time and infrastructure as well as clear policies on how alerts are acted upon. Computerized dosing support technology and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology are an emerging area of investigation showing promising results.

Summary

Inpatient hypoglycemia is often predictable and preventable and requires institutional support to deliver targeted and safe diabetes care. This requires each institution to do periodic reassessment of policies and technologies. Future research needs to focus on the cost/benefits of interventions including studies of automated dosing algorithms as well as CGM in higher-risk patient populations.

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Medicine Matters Diabetes

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Recent Findings

Summary