“This manuscript provides guidance for healthcare providers caring for patients hospitalised for COVID-19 who also have a prior history of diabetes or who have high blood sugar levels at the time of hospitalisation,” said lead author Mary T. Korytkowski, M.D., of the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in Pittsburgh. “These healthcare providers are at risk for contracting COVID-19, and while glycemic management in the hospital improves patient outcomes, it also intensifies the amount of time with direct patient contact.”

Clinicians may limit their risk of exposure by minimising the use of IV insulin infusions and using remote glucose monitoring devices and non-insulin therapies when possible. Diabetes self-management by selected patients who are knowledgeable and capable of this in the hospital also can be considered as a way of limiting direct patient interactions. Clinicians should be aware that some medications used in treating COVID-19 patients, including glucocorticoids and hydroxychloroquine, can affect blood glucose levels.

The manuscript, “A Pragmatic Approach to Inpatient Diabetes Management during the COVID-19 Pandemic,” was published online, ahead of print.