Advertising
For people with diabetes, a hospital stay—whether planned or unexpected—comes with added risks. One of the most serious is the increased likelihood of infections. Diabetes can weaken the immune system, slow down healing, and complicate responses to infections that might be minor in others.
If you or a loved one is living with diabetes, understanding how to manage infection risk during hospitalization is crucial. This post explores why diabetes increases infection susceptibility, outlines common hospital-related infections, and provides practical steps to stay safe during your stay.
Why Diabetes Increases Infection Risk
Diabetes—especially when not well-controlled—can affect nearly every system in the body, making it harder to fight off bacteria and viruses. Some key reasons people with diabetes are more prone to infections include:
-
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia): Elevated glucose levels impair white blood cell function, which reduces your body’s ability to fight infection.
-
Poor circulation: Slower blood flow means it takes longer for immune cells to reach infection sites.
-
Nerve damage (neuropathy): This can lead to unnoticed injuries, especially on the feet, that can become infected.
-
Chronic inflammation: Persistent inflammation can suppress the immune response.
In the hospital setting—where invasive procedures, wounds, or catheter use are common—these vulnerabilities can be magnified.
Common Infections in Hospitalized Diabetic Patients
People with diabetes are susceptible to the same healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) as other patients, but with higher risk and more severe outcomes. The most common include:
1. Surgical Site Infections (SSIs)
-
Diabetic patients undergoing surgery are at higher risk of post-operative infections, especially if glucose levels are not well managed before and after surgery.
2. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
-
Catheter use or incomplete bladder emptying—common in diabetics with autonomic neuropathy—can lead to bacterial growth.
3. Pneumonia
-
Weakened immune defenses make it easier for respiratory infections to take hold, particularly in patients on ventilators or with limited mobility.
4. Skin and Soft Tissue Infections
-
Minor wounds can escalate quickly in diabetic patients. Hospital stays often involve IV lines, blood draws, and monitoring devices, all of which can irritate the skin.
5. Bloodstream Infections (Sepsis)
-
Infections that begin in wounds, surgical sites, or catheters can spread to the bloodstream—an especially dangerous complication for diabetics.
The Role of Blood Sugar Control in Preventing Infections
One of the most important factors in reducing infection risk is maintaining stable blood glucose levels before, during, and after your hospital stay.
Poor glycemic control is linked to:
-
Higher rates of post-surgical infections
-
Longer hospital stays
-
Increased need for antibiotics
-
Higher mortality in severe infections
Hospitals typically monitor blood glucose closely for diabetic patients. However, you can advocate for yourself by:
-
Sharing your full diabetes history and current medications on admission
-
Letting staff know about your target glucose range
-
Informing nurses if your blood sugar feels too high or too low
-
Bringing your own glucose monitor if permitted
If you use an insulin pump or continuous glucose monitor (CGM), talk with your care team to determine if you can continue using it during your stay.
Steps to Reduce Infection Risk in the Hospital
While you may not be able to control everything during a hospital stay, there are several proactive steps you can take to protect yourself.
1. Practice Excellent Hygiene
-
Wash your hands frequently and ask all visitors or medical staff to do the same.
-
Avoid touching IV lines, surgical dressings, or catheters.
-
Bring alcohol-based hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes for surfaces like tray tables, remotes, and call buttons.
2. Monitor Wound and IV Sites
-
Check for redness, swelling, warmth, or discharge.
-
Inform staff of any pain or changes in how your wound looks or feels.
3. Watch for Signs of Infection
Early detection can prevent serious complications. Be alert for:
-
Fever or chills
-
Unusual fatigue
-
Cough or difficulty breathing
-
Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
-
Red streaks or spreading rash near a wound
4. Move When You Can
Immobility increases the risk of pneumonia, pressure ulcers, and urinary infections. Even short walks around the room can help. If you can’t move independently, ask for help with turning or repositioning in bed.
5. Manage Your Glucose
-
Ask about scheduled blood sugar checks, especially before and after meals.
-
If you feel symptoms of hypo- or hyperglycemia, notify a nurse immediately.
-
Ensure you’re receiving your insulin or oral diabetes medications on time.
Talk to Your Care Team About Infection Prevention
Open communication is key to safe, infection-free care. Ask your healthcare team the following questions:
-
How are you managing my diabetes during my stay?
-
What are you doing to prevent infection in my case?
-
How long will I need this catheter/IV/cannula?
-
Are there signs I should look out for that could indicate an infection?
-
Who do I contact if I notice something wrong after discharge?
These conversations show that you’re engaged and proactive—which can lead to better outcomes.
After You’re Discharged: Continued Vigilance
Even after leaving the hospital, your risk of infection doesn’t end. Many infections develop days or even weeks after discharge.
Key steps at home:
-
Follow wound care instructions exactly
-
Take antibiotics if prescribed—complete the full course
-
Check your temperature and blood sugar regularly
-
Keep follow-up appointments
-
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience signs of infection
It’s also a good idea to keep a discharge summary and a list of your current medications easily accessible in case you need to return to the hospital or visit an urgent care center.
Diabetes and COVID-19 in Hospital Settings
While the worst of the pandemic may be behind us, COVID-19 still poses a risk, especially for people with diabetes. Hospitals have strict protocols in place to reduce viral transmission, but you should still:
-
Wear a mask in common areas or crowded wards
-
Avoid unnecessary visitors
-
Maintain proper distancing when possible
-
Disclose your vaccination status and any recent symptoms
If you’re hospitalized with COVID-19 and diabetes, your care team may adjust your insulin or steroid medications to manage spikes in blood sugar caused by infection or treatment.
Conclusion
Hospital stays can be intimidating for anyone, but for people with diabetes, the risk of infection adds an extra layer of concern. Fortunately, with proper planning, vigilance, and communication, you can significantly lower your chances of developing a hospital-acquired infection.
Managing your blood sugar, staying alert to signs of trouble, and partnering with your care team are the most powerful tools you have. Don’t hesitate to speak up, ask questions, and advocate for your health.
By staying informed and proactive, you can ensure that your hospital stay is as safe and complication-free as possible—and focused on what matters most: healing and recovery.