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Risk Factors for Hypoglycemia in the ICU

Purpose: To identify risk factors for hypoglycemia in the intensive care unit (ICU) based on the study of Vriesendorp et al.

Description

Vriesendorp et al identified risk factors associated with hypoglycemic in the intensive care unit. Recognition of these factors allows for an early intervention. The authors are from the Academic Medical Center in Amsterdam and Leiden University in the Netherlands.


 

Management factors:

(1) continuous venovenous hemofiltration using a bicarbonate-based substitution fluid

(2) administration of insulin

(2a) failure to adjust insulin administration for a decrease in nutrition

(2b) co-administration with octreotide

(3) need for inotropic support

 

where:

• A lactate-based substitution fluid can be used rather than the bicarbonate-based fluid.

• Continuous venovenous hemofiltration indicates renal dysfunction.

 

Patient factors:

(1) history of diabetes mellitus

(2) sepsis

 

A patient with one or more of these risk factors should be monitored more closely for hypoglycemia. Early detection allows for early correction, which can avoid serious consequences.

 


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Specialty

Objective

ICD-10