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Updated: Jan 13, 2026
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Homogeneous Time-resolved Förster Resonance Energy Transfer-based Assay for Detection of Insulin Secretion
Published on: May 10, 2018
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Determining Causes of Insulin-Induced Hypoglycemia Using an Electronic-Based Trigger.
Kamil Evy A Bantol1, Yingchao Zhong1, Joanne Bruno2
1Department of Medicine, NYU Langone Health, New York, NY.
Summary
Hypoglycemia, low blood glucose, is a common inpatient harm. This study identified insulin dosing errors and failure to stop insulin as key causes, requiring multifaceted solutions for prevention.
Area of Science:
- Internal Medicine
- Clinical Pharmacy
- Patient Safety
Background:
- Hypoglycemia (blood glucose < 70 mg/dL) is a frequent medication-related harm in hospitalized patients.
- Identifying and analyzing causes of hypoglycemia is crucial for improving patient safety.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate an electronic trigger for identifying hypoglycemic events in hospitalized patients.
- To analyze the root causes of insulin-mediated hypoglycemia.
Main Methods:
- An electronic trigger was developed and validated through a multistep process.
- 111 hypoglycemic events were identified between January 1 and December 31, 2023.
- Qualitative analysis was performed on the identified hypoglycemic events.
Main Results:
- The most common cause of hypoglycemia was related to insulin orders, including excessive starting/adjustment doses and failure to discontinue insulin.
- Changes in dietary status and hyperkalemia treatment also emerged as contributing factors.
- Multiple causative etiologies were identified, highlighting the complexity of hypoglycemia prevention.
Conclusions:
- Preventing hypoglycemia in hospitalized patients necessitates multifaceted strategies.
- Educational interventions for healthcare providers prescribing insulin are recommended.
- Addressing insulin dosing and discontinuation protocols is essential for reducing hypoglycemic events.
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