Hypoglycemia: Clinical and System Reviews, Incident Analyses
Given the broad range of potential causes of Hypoglycemia, in addition to recommendations listed above, we recommend conducting clinical and system reviews to identify latent causes and determine appropriate recommendations.
Occurrences of harm are often complex with many contributing factors. Organizations need to:
- Measure and monitor the types and frequency of these occurrences.
- Use appropriate analytical methods to understand the contributing factors.
- Identify and implement solutions or interventions that are designed to prevent recurrence and reduce risk of harm.
- Have mechanisms in place to mitigate consequences of harm when it occurs.
To develop a more in-depth understanding of the care delivered to patients, chart audits, incident analyses and prospective analyses can be helpful in identifying quality improvement opportunities. Links to key resources for conducting chart audits and analysis methods are included in the Hospital Harm Improvement Resources Introduction.
If your review reveals that your cases of hypoglycemia in diabetic and non-diabetic patients identified during a hospital stay are linked to specific practice or process issues, you may find these resources helpful:
- American Diabetes Association www.diabetes.org
- Canadian Diabetes Association www.diabetes.ca
- Institute for Safe Medication Practices www.ismp.org
- Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) www.ihi.org
- Public Health Agency of Canada: Your Guide to Diabetes
Hypoglycemia
