First, it's important that there be a scheduled set dose of Novolog before each meal--not just a sliding scale if BG exceeds a certain level. Usually the Lantus (basal) dose should be about 50 - 60% of total daily insulin. If she really needs 40 units of Lantus, then minimum dose of Novolog should be between 10 - 13 units before each meal, even if her BG is only 70. The SS would be additional Novolog as a pre-meal correction if BG is above target (usually 120). If the Novolog is SS only (example: BG
The Lantus dose is evaluated based on the FBG. There is a titration scale with the Rx info. FBG 121 - 140 add 2 units Lantus, FBG 141 -160 add 4 units of Lantus, FBG 161 - 180 add 6 units Lantus, FBG > 180 add 8 units Lantus. After each change wait 3 days to adjust again. Novolog dose is evaluated based on BG at following meal. High BG before lunch means not enough Novolog to cover carb content of meal and/or correct for a high FBG. If you find that Lantus dose is climbing to higher and higher levels, pt my do better on NPH at bedtime and before breakfast. Other suggestions since absorption may be a problem. Make sure needle is long enough. For doses > 30 units standard 12 mm needle is better than the short 8 mm needle. Also, make sure Lantus is given at a 90 degree angle. Check to make sure insulin isn't being injected into a site where the sub q tissue is lumpy or hard. The arms often don't provide sufficient area for adequate site rotation.
BG values of 600 and above are in the range for HHS (hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome--BG can go as high as 2000). HHS, if it develops, actually has a higher mortality rate than DKA. HHS is much more common among residents of LTC facilities. Things to look for: Is there an underlying infection? Is she able to get up and get water for herself? Make sure she drinks water--not juice. Hyperglycemia causes dehydration via osmotic diuresis. I've had pts with BG between 1300 -1700 on admission.
Also, check her psych meds. The atypicaal antipsychotics (Zyprexa, Risperdal, Seroquel. Ability, etc.) may lead to high BG, even in those who don't already have DM, and would increase insulin needs in those who do.
Hope some of this helps. Often the answer is the right insulin Rx from the doctor and BG checks before each meal.
OFP, RN, CDE
Addendum: This post is intended to be an explanation of how to use basal/bolus insulin therapy--not how to manage any particular case. Many physicians still think a sliding scale is pre-meal insulin, as opposed to being a correction scale for BG that is already high.
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