Table 7.

Indications for insulin infusion

Hyperglycemic emergencies such as DKA or HHS

Severe hyperglycemia (premeal glucose values of >300 mg/dl and/or postmeal values of >400 mg/dl)

Critically ill with sepsis or on inotropes or on ventilators

A lower threshold for starting insulin infusion in ICU is if capillary glucose is >180 mg/dl on repeated occasions

Uncontrolled hyperglycemia despite the appropriate use of a basal-bolus insulin regimen

Patients with erratic diet and frequent vomiting in ICU

DKA: Diabetic ketoacidosis; HHS: hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state.