Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Improving IV Insulin Administration in a Community Hospital
Published on: June 11, 2012
Evaluation of glycemic control following discontinuation of an intensive insulin protocol
Quinn A Czosnowski1, Joseph M Swanson, Bob L Lobo
1Regional Medical Center at Memphis, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.
Background:
Intensive insulin protocols (IIPs) have been demonstrated to reduce morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. Currently, there are no published studies evaluating glycemic control after discontinuation of an IIP.
Objective:
The purpose of this study was to compare blood glucose (BG) control during an IIP and for 5 days following its discontinuation (follow-up period).
Methods:
The study was a retrospective review of intensive care unit patients who received an IIP for >or=24 hours. Data were collected during the last 12 hours of the IIP and subsequent follow-up period.
Results:
For all 65 included patients, the mean +/- standard deviation for BG on the IIP was 123 +/- 26 mg/dL versus 168 +/- 50 mg/dL following discontinuation of the IIP (P < 0.001). The median (interquartile range) insulin that was administered decreased from 40 (22-65) units on the IIP to 8 (0-18) units after the IIP was stopped (P < 0.001). The mean daily BG during the follow-up period was significantly higher than that during the IIP (P < 0.001). Additionally, an insulin requirement of >20 units during the last 12 hours of the IIP was identified as a risk factor for poor glycemic control during the follow-up period (odds ratio: 4.62; 95% confidence interval: 1.17-18.17).
Conclusions:
This study demonstrates a significant increase in BG following discontinuation of an IIP. Higher insulin requirements during the last 12 hours of an IIP were identified as an independent risk factor for poor glycemic control following the IIP. A standardized insulin transition protocol may help better control BG after discontinuation of an IIP.
Related Concept Videos
Insulin: Dosing Regimen and Adverse Effects
The basal dose constitutes about 40%-50% of the total daily dose, with the rest as premeal insulin. The mealtime insulin dose should mirror...
Diabetes: Management and Pharmacotherapy
Insulin remains the cornerstone of treatment for most patients with type 1 and many...
Hyperglycemia
Hypoglycemia and Glucagon
Type II Diabetes Mellitus III: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnosis
Diabetes: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Complications