Publication Date

2-7-2025

Degree Awarded Date

December 12, 2025

DOI

https://doi.org/10.48765/znqg-0y18

Abstract

Background and Review of Literature: Maintaining optimal blood glucose (BG) levels in patients with diabetes (PWD) undergoing surgery is crucial to prevent perioperative complications. Anesthesia providers are expected to adhere to established guidelines for monitoring BG levels in PWD during surgery. However, ensuring consistent adherence to these guidelines remains a challenge.

Purpose: This quality improvement (QI) project aimed to investigate the effect of automated BG reminders on anesthesia provider adherence to an intraoperative BG monitoring guideline for surgical PWD.

Methods: A QI project was conducted at Barnes Jewish Hospital (BJH) over three months. The population of interest was surgical patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Implementation Plan/Procedure: The automated BG reminder tool was disseminated across the BJC Healthcare Epic system but the Washington University Department of Anesthesia (WUDA) providers’ cases at BJH were the focus of data collection. Adherence to the BG guideline was measured and compared to baseline data. The primary outcome of this project was to assess the impact of automated BG reminders on anesthesia provider adherence to an intraoperative BG guideline. Data analysis included Tableau data using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests to compare groups, and run charts to quantify differences in guideline adherence frequency pre- and post-real-time reminder implementation. The project aimed to improve patient safety and outcomes by implementing real-time BG reminders to ensure better adherence to an established guideline.

Implications/Conclusions: Findings from this project have the potential to influence practice and enhance the perioperative care of surgical PWD, ultimately leading to improved patient outcomes and healthcare quality.

Language

English (en)

Document Type

Other

Advisor

Spencer, Julie DNP, RN, CDCES (Chair) Barnes Jewish College, Goldfarb School of Nursing

Associated Committee

Torres, Brian DNP, CRNA (Committee Member) Barnes Jewish College, Goldfarb School of Nursing

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