From Protocol to Practice: Lessons in Inpatient Hypoglycemia Management

This episode examines a hospital-wide hypoglycemia management protocol at Mayo Clinic. Recognizing the serious impact of inpatient hypoglycemia, a multidisciplinary team launched a prevention-focused protocol inspired by 2020 ADA guidelines.

Their initial strategy was to intervene at glucose levels below 90 mg/dL to prevent low blood sugar before it occurred. However, real-world data revealed unintended consequences. Many patients between 70–90 mg/dL were not at true risk for hypoglycemia, resulting in overtreatment, unnecessary IV dextrose and glucagon use, increased costs, and strain during a national dextrose shortage.

Hear how the team navigated these challenges, highlighting key quality improvement lessons.

Hosts: Timothy Morgenthaler, MD and Sheri Nemec, MS, CPXP

Guests:

Sneha Mohan MD, Associate Consultant, Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Marny Carlson, M.S., R.N., NPD-BC, Nursing Education Specialist

#patientsafety #keyintoquality #qualityimprovement #safetyculture #mayoclinic

Host: Timothy Morgenthaler, M.D. | https://www.linkedin.com/in/timorgenthaler/

Host: Sheri Nemec| https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheryl-sheri-nemec-a627982a/

#mayokeyintoquality