Guidelines for Hyperglycemia and Diabetes Management in Inpatients

Clinical Takeaway

: These 2026 updated recommendations offer clinicians sage advice related to monitoring and care of specialized populations.

An overview of Diabetes Care in the Hospital: Standards of Care in Diabetes — 2026 Diabetes Care

Background

Caring for hospitalized patients with hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, and diabetes requires a systematic approach to lower morbidity and adverse outcomes. The American Diabetes Association (ADA) recently published their 2026 guidance for care of patients with diabetes, and as part of that, they offer specific guidance for diabetes and hyperglycemia in the hospital.

Key Recommendations

Glycemic Goals

Initiate or intensify glycemic therapies when blood glucose levels are ≥180 mg/dl (at least 2 times within 24 hours).

Glucose Monitoring

Measure glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA_1c) in patients with diabetes or hyperglycemia (blood glucose >140 mg/dl) wh…

Reviewing Author

Daniel D. Dressler, M.D., M.Sc., M.H.M., M.A.C.P.

Disclosures

RoyaltiesMcGraw-Hill; Elsevier

Editorial BoardsMedical Clinics of North America; Caribbean Medical Journal International Advisory Panel

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesAmerican College of Physicians, 2027 Annual Meeting Committee