• Percentage of time points within range during protocol (serum glucose 60-150 mg/dl) [%]
  
• Mean blood glucose level during study period [mg/dl]
  

• Time from initiation of protocol to first measurement in target range (serum glucose 60-150 mg/dl) [hours]
  
• Number of time points below range (hypoglycemic episodes with serum glucose < 60) normalized by study period [hypoglycemic glucose determinations/total glucose determinations]
  
• Time enrolled in the trial [hours]
  
• Maximum blood glucose level during study period [mg/dl]
  
• Mean hourly intravenous (IV) insulin dose calculated daily [units/hour]
  

Improved outcomes have been demonstrated with tight control of blood glucose in critically ill patients. A number of look-up algorithms based on hourly glucose measurements and titrated intravenous insulin have been developed for the intensive care unit (ICU). Despite the numerous published algorithms, no study has investigated which algorithm results in optimal glycemic control in critically ill patients. The purpose of this trial is to compare two institutionally approved intravenous insulin administration algorithms and describe subsequent glycemic control. We hypothesize that the protocol that allows for variable insulin administration for a given blood glucose (multiple algorithms) will be associated with more optimal glycemic control. Optimal glycemic control will be defined by time spent within a predetermined blood glucose range. In addition, the number of hypoglycemic episodes and mean and maximum blood glucose concentrations will also be measured. This trial will determine which insulin infusion algorithm is most effective in terms of glycemic control, and allow for standardization of glucose management in accordance with best practice.