The Effects of Episodic Glycemic Variations on the Clinic Outcomes of Patients With Severe Sepsis and Septic Shock in a Community Hospital Setting

Abstract

The issue of glycemic control in critically ill patients has yet to be settled. Large studies exploring strict protocols were equivocal, as better outcomes were seen in surgical patients, while potential harm loomed over medical patients. Subsets within these groups and degrees of glycemic control, yielded conflicting findings, further complicating the overall picture. The effects of episodic glycemic variation remain unclear in those most critically ill of patients-those with severe sepsis and septic shock. METHODS: This is a multi-center retrospective chart review study of patients admitted for severe sepsis and septic shock to the critical care unit of Raritan Bay Medical Center, Perth Amboy and Raritan Bay Medical Center, Old Bridge from January 2016 to August 2017. We extracted data on hypoglycemia, (single blood sugar reading below 70), and hyperglycemia, (two consecutive blood sugar readings greater than 200). Primary outcomes were mortality and length of ICU and hospital stay. Possible confounders, such as diabetes, steroids, and sepsis category (severe sepsis or septic shock), were also measured.