Glycemic Control

Good blood glucose control for diabetic patients having an operation reduces the risk of surgical site infections and promotes healing. Having control of blood glucose prior to surgery lessens the chance of high blood glucose (hyperglycemia) or low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) during and after the operation or procedure.

As many as one-third of patients having an operation are found to have undiagnosed diabetes. Checking blood glucose prior to an operation may identify these patients so that treatment can be initiated to control blood glucose levels before hospitalization.

• Glycemic Control Checklist
• Living with Diabetes–American Diabetes Association
• Self-Care Behavior Handouts–American Association of Diabetes Educators