Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2025

Improving IV Insulin Administration in a Community Hospital
Published on: June 11, 2012
Improved postoperative blood glucose control through implementation of clinical pharmacist driven glycemic management
Nathan T Smith1, Somboun Xiong1, Whitney J Bergquist1
1Mayo Clinic, 201 West Center Street, Rochester, MN, 55902, USA.
Background:
Poor postoperative glycemic control has been linked with higher mortality, cardiovascular complications, stroke, infection, impaired wound healing, and increased length of stay.
Methods:
This multicenter, retrospective study of colorectal surgery patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus evaluated the difference in mean blood glucose levels postoperatively in a pharmacist driven glycemic management model vs standard of care. Secondary objectives assessed hyperglycemic events, severe hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, postoperative infection, and rates of endocrinology consults.
Results:
186 patients were included, 120 in the pharmacist driven cohort and 66 in the standard of care. The pharmacist managed cohort demonstrated significantly lower mean blood glucose (133.9 vs 148.3 mg/dL, 95% CI [-17 to -11] p < 0.001), significantly fewer hyperglycemic events (9.6% vs 20.5%, p < 0.0001), and non-significant reduction of hypoglycemic events (0.7% vs 1.2%, p = 0.1443).
Conclusions:
Expansion of the postoperative care team by utilizing pharmacists to manage postoperative blood glucose resulted in improved glycemic control.
Related Concept Videos
Endoscopic Procedures IV: Sigmoidoscopy and Laproscopy
Sigmoidoscopy
Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that uses a flexible sigmoidoscope equipped with a light source and camera to examine the rectum and sigmoid colon. The procedure involves inserting the tube through the anus...
Peripheral Artery Disease V: Postoperative Nursing Management
Chronic Pancreatitis II: Collaborative Care
Assessment:
Diabetes: Management and Pharmacotherapy
Insulin remains the cornerstone of treatment for most patients with type 1 and many...
Inflammatory Bowel Disease V: Surgical Management
Here are some common surgical interventions for IBD:
Peptic Ulcer Disease V: Surgical Management and Nursing Care
Surgical Interventions for Peptic Ulcer Disease

