Post-Operative Blood Sugar Checks and Insulin Infusions
Many things can affect healing after surgery. One is having normal blood sugars. If blood sugar levels are too high, patients are more at risk of a surgical site infection. This is true for patients with diabetes, are borderline diabetics or have not been diagnosed.
There is an after surgery blood sugar and insulin infusion protocol. We want to let you know how important this is before you have your surgery. If you end up with an infusion you will understand why.
Whose blood sugar is checked?
• All patients who have a history of diabetes or have borderline diabetes
• All patients who have had a laparotomy (open surgery) or vulvectomy (removal of the outer folds of skin surrounding the vaginal entrance)
Who is started on insulin infusion?
• All patients who have a history of diabetes or have borderline diabetes
• All patients who have had a laparotomy or a vulvectomy with blood sugar levels greater than or equal to 177mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) after surgery
Information on Insulin Infusions
Obtained from HFFY Insulin Infusion
What is insulin?
Insulin is a hormone that is made by the pancreas. Your body uses the sugar in food as a source of energy. It keeps blood sugar levels normal.
Why do I need insulin now?
There are many reasons why you might need an insulin drip. Stress can increase your blood sugars. If you just had surgery, your body is under stress. Some people notice their blood sugars go up when they are worried or anxious. If you need medicines such as steroids, your blood sugars might increase as well. Changes in your diet or activity levels can increase your blood sugars too.
What is an insulin drip?
Instead of giving a shot an insulin drip goes through an intravenous line (IV). Insulin given through an IV gets into your body faster bringing down high blood sugars.
What are normal blood sugar levels?
Normal blood sugar levels are 70 – 100 mg/dL when fasting and before meals. The normal levels after meals are 70 – 140 mg/dL.
How often will my blood sugars be checked?
Your blood sugars need to be checked every hour at first. If these stay steady, you will be checked every 2-4 hours. Blood sugar levels can change quickly. This is why we check so often.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 06/05/2012
Copyright © 06/05/2012 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#7364
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