Which measure is commonly used to manage transient hyperglycemia after CABG?

• A. Oral hypoglycemics
• B. Insulin drip or sliding scale
• C. No insulin
• D. Diuretic therapy

Answer: (B)

Transient hyperglycemia after CABG happens because the body's stress response releases hormones that raise glucose and reduce insulin effectiveness. In the immediate postoperative period, insulin infusions (drips) or sliding-scale insulin are used because they allow rapid, precise adjustments to insulin delivery as glucose levels and patient status change. This keeps blood sugar in a safer range, reducing the risk of infection, poor wound healing, and other complications.

Oral hypoglycemics aren’t suitable right after surgery due to the patient often being NPO, variable oral intake, and the higher risk of hypoglycemia; diuretic therapy targets fluid balance, not glucose; not giving insulin would leave hyperglycemia untreated and could worsen outcomes.