The management of hyperglycaemia of inpatients receiving enteral feeding: a practical guide

Abstract

Enteral feeding is often associated with hyperglycaemia, regardless of if there has been a previous diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. Hyperglycaemia in hospitalised patients is associated with increased morbidity, mortality and length of hospital stay. Insulin therapy is used to manage EF-related hyperglycaemia. Due to several options and regimens being available, choosing and managing an appropriate insulin regimen for EF is challenging and is best undertaken using a multidisciplinary team approach. Inappropriate or incorrect insulin use can lead to poor glycaemic control and/or hypoglycaemia. This article discusses the various treatment strategies for hyperglycaemia associated with EF, prevention of hypoglycaemia, the role of the MDT in providing optimal care and suggestions for simplifying the management of these patients.