The Effect of Various, Everyday Practices on Glucose Levels in Critically Ill Children

Background: To evaluate the effect of various, everyday intensive care unit (ICU) practices on glucose levels in critically ill pediatric patients with the use of a continuous glucose monitoring system.Methods: Seventeen sensors were placed in 16 pediatric patients (8 male). All therapeutic and diagnostic interventions were recorded and 15 minutes later, a flash glucose measurement was obtained by swiping the sensor with a reader. Glucose difference was calculated as the glucose value 15 minutes after the intervention minus the mean daily glucose value for each individual patient. Additionally, the consciousness status of the patient (awake or sedated) was recorded.Results: Two hundred and five painful skin interventions were recorded. The mean difference of glucose values was higher by 1.84 ± 14.76 mg/dL (95% CI: −0.19 to 3.87 mg/dL, P = .076). However, when patients were categorized regarding their consciousness level, mean glucose difference was significantly higher in awake state than in sedated patients (4.76 ± 28.07 vs −2.21 ± 15.77 mg/dL, P < .001). Six hundred forty-nine interventions involving the respiratory system were recorded. Glucose difference during washings proved to be significantly higher than the ones during simple suctions (4.74 ± 14.18 mg/dL vs 0.32 ± 18.22 mg/dL, P = .016). Finally, glucose difference in awake patients was higher by 3.66 ± 13.91 mg/dL compared to glucose difference of −2.25 ± 21.07 mg/dL obtained during respiratory intervention in sedated patients.Conclusions: Diagnostic and therapeutic procedures in the ICU, especially when performed in an awake state, exacerbate the stress and lead to a significant rise in glucose levels.