Comparison of computer and paper-based protocols for managing hyperglycemia in critical ill patients

The purpose of this study was to compare a computer-based insulin protocol against two paper-based protocols to control hyperglycemia in intensive care unit (ICU) patients. A safe and effective protocol must minimize hyperglycemia and glucose variability while also avoiding hypoglycemia, all of which are associated with increased risk of death. In theory, computer-based protocols that base insulin dosing on the individual patient’s record of response offer better performance by adjusting to each patient’s sensitivity to insulin.