| Topic: | Diabetes (DM) |
| Title: | Improving Diabetes Care in the Hospital Using Guideline-Directed Orders. |
| Author: | Quevedo, S.F., et al. |
| Source: | Diabetes Spectrum. 14(4): 226-233. October, 2001. |
| Availability: | Available from American Diabetes Association. 1701 North Beauregard Street, Alexandria, VA 22311. (800) 232-3472. Website: www.diabetes.org. |
| Abstract: | Improving glycemic (levels of blood glucose, or sugar) control for inpatients with diabetes remains a formidable challenge. While the use of inadequate and nonphysiological insulin regimens is widespread, there are many potential barriers to improving physician and nursing hospital practices in this area. This article describes an integrated program that utilizes subcutaneous and intravenous insulin order forms incorporating guidelines that encourage more appropriate insulin therapy in the hospital. This approach has resulted in a significant decrease in one factor associated with suboptimal insulin use for inpatients: reliance of sliding-scale, short-acting insulin alone for blood glucose control. The effectiveness of these orders improved and resistance to change was overcome after ongoing education and protocol revisions based on feedback from physicians, nurses, and pharmacists. 5 figures. 18 references. |
| Format: | Journal Article |
| Language: | English. |
| Major Keywords: | Diabetes Mellitus. Insulin. Drug Therapy. Hospital Care. Administration and Dosage. Quality of Care. Patient Care Management. |
| Minor Keywords: | Professional Education. Delivery of Health Care. Blood Glucose. Insulin Administration. Recordkeeping. Nursing Care. |
| Publication Number: | DMJA10088 |
| Return to Search Results | |