and immediate supply of glucose to provide energy, for example, to raise the body
temperature and cause fever to fight infection. However, as insulin secretion is reduced at this time and glucose
stores are mobilised, patients who are critically ill are at high risk of developing hyperglycaemia (Viana et al,
2014). In a patient who is critically ill, hyperglycaemia is a particular problem as it may lead to impaired wound
healing, fluid and electrolyte imbalance, and impaired immune function.