A review of published studies shows abnormal glucose levels may lead to negative patient outcomes, including longer lengths of stay, surgical site infections, neurological events and mortality, according to a study published in the AORN Journal.
Despite this review, the researchers found conflicting outcomes regarding the optimal glucose control range to prevent hypoglycemic as well as hyperglycemic risks. For example, the researchers highlighted perioperative recommendations based on blood glucose levels: less than 100 mg/dL, 100-200 mg/dL and more than 300 mg/dL.
The researchers also detail perioperative recommendations and interventions should a patient's blood glucose level reach more than 180 mg/dL, including checking every two hours during surgery if surgery lasts longer than two hours. To view a detailed list of these recommendations and interventions, click here.
The researchers concluded that healthcare experts disagree on a sound target blood glucose level as well as interventions to maximize patient safety and healing. As such, they recommended hospitals establish glucose management protocols for maintaining moderate glucose controls.
Despite this review, the researchers found conflicting outcomes regarding the optimal glucose control range to prevent hypoglycemic as well as hyperglycemic risks. For example, the researchers highlighted perioperative recommendations based on blood glucose levels: less than 100 mg/dL, 100-200 mg/dL and more than 300 mg/dL.
The researchers also detail perioperative recommendations and interventions should a patient's blood glucose level reach more than 180 mg/dL, including checking every two hours during surgery if surgery lasts longer than two hours. To view a detailed list of these recommendations and interventions, click here.
The researchers concluded that healthcare experts disagree on a sound target blood glucose level as well as interventions to maximize patient safety and healing. As such, they recommended hospitals establish glucose management protocols for maintaining moderate glucose controls.
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