Specialist nurse’s glycemic control in critically ill patients : A scoping review

Abstract: Background: Stress induced hyperglycemia is a major global problem in the critical care setting and is strongly associated with adverse outcomes. Glycemic control is a complex task, and while there exist plenty of studies on the appropriate measures of dealing with it, the knowledge about factors influencing Stress induced hyperglycemia is still limited. Aim: The aim of this study was to illuminate nurses´ strategies to enhance health and well-being through glycemic control in critically ill patients. For this goal we apply Patrica Benner’s ‘from novice to expert to’ concept. Method: A literature review with a qualitative approach was chosen to investigate the study’s aim. 16 articles were included in this scoping reviewwith a descriptive content analysis. Result: 6 themes appeared as different disorders that affect blood glucose regulation; Covid-19, Sepsis, Diabetes, Cardiology, Brain injuries and Treatment and other factors that affect blood glucose, which included the subthemes: medications, haemodialysis, nutrition and gender. Conclusion: Data suggests that a person-centered approach, considering different patient populations, should be applied to glycemic control in order to safeguard critically ill patients' health and safety.