Protocol for blood glucose control during enteral nutrition induction in patients with diabetes mellitus

Abstract

The induction of enteral nutrition in diabetic subjects is problematic because of the difficulty in controlling glycaemia. The use of a sliding scale is discouraged, while scheduled insulin therapy is optimal. We compiled a protocol for patients' insulinisation during induction of enteral nutrition that takes into account basal and nutritional requirements. This allows the fulfilment of patients' actual insulin requirements and optimisation of insulin therapy.

Evaluation of the Role of Enteral Nutrition in Managing Patients with Diabetes: A Systematic Review

“…The role of enteral nutrition in patients with diabetes is to provide the required macro- and micro-nutrients including energy, protein, vitamins and minerals in part or whole in order to reduce the risk of malnutrition in these patients [ 14 ]. However, due to the nature of the different food formulas, the risk of hyperglycemia could be a major challenge in these patients and newly diagnosed hyperglycaemia could be considered an independent prognostic factor of mortality in patients with enteral feeding [ 15 , 16 ]. Hyperglycaemia can have profound impacts on a range of patients with diabetes including those hospitalised, such as patients with diabetic ulcers or undergoing limb amputations.…”