Objective

This case study examines the impact of using a computer-guided glucose management software system (EndoTool) for post-cardiac arrest patients undergoing induced hypothermia, a therapy with known risks of decreased insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity.

Setting

571-bed acute care hospital (named among Top 100 cardiovascular hospitals in U.S.).

Results

• With traditional paper protocols, intravenous insulin titration required complex manual calculations and overall glucose control was inadequate, often including hyperglycemia followed by hypoglycemia.
• With EndoTool, calculations for intravenous insulin titration were made by the system, nurses noted that glucose levels were quickly controlled, and there were no hypoglycemia events.

Conclusions

Use of a computer-guided glucose management software system (EndoTool) for intravenous insulin titration delivers demonstrably better outcomes than traditional paper protocols for patients undergoing induced hypothermia.