The Effect of Preoperative Oral Carbohydrate Administration on Insulin Resistance and Comfort Level in Patients Undergoing Surgery

Abstract

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of preoperative oral carbohydrate solution (OCS) administration on postoperative insulin resistance and patient comfort in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Design: Randomized controlled clinical study.

Methods: The experimental group received OCS. The control group did not eat or drink before surgery. Glucose and insulin level were measured at baseline, 2 hours before surgery, and at the first and third hour after surgery. Insulin resistance was assessed by the homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). The visual analogue scale (VAS) and general comfort scale (GCS) were used to assess postoperative comfort level.

Findings: A significant increase in the glucose level was observed in both groups (P < 0.05). A change in glucose level was significantly higher in the control group (P = .014). HOMA-IR values did not change significantly in the OCS group (P = .160). In the OCS group VAS scores were significantly lower (P < .0001). The OCS group had significantly higher relief (P = .014), ease (P = .001), and transcendence (P < .0001) scores.

Conclusions: OCS decreases insulin resistance and increases comfort.

Keywords: comfort; insulin resistance; nursing; oral carbohydrate solution; surgery.