What is the recommended inpatient glucose target range for non-critically ill adults?

• A. 80-110 mg/dL
• B. 90-120 mg/dL
• C. 100-120 mg/dL
• D. 140-180 mg/dL

Answer: (D)

The idea is to balance keeping blood glucose from being too high while avoiding hypoglycemia in hospitalized patients who aren’t critically ill. In this setting, a target of about 140–180 mg/dL is used because it reduces the risks tied to hyperglycemia (like infection, dehydration, and delayed healing) without pushing too hard for tight control, which can lead to dangerous lows given variable appetite, illness, and treatment changes.

If glucose is kept within this moderate range, patients are less likely to experience the consequences of both extremes and healthcare teams can adjust insulin dosing more safely as the patient’s condition and intake change. Going tighter (below 140) often increases hypoglycemia, especially with inconsistent meals or changes in therapy, while going looser (above 180) is associated with worse outcomes from persistent hyperglycemia.

So, the recommended inpatient glucose target range for non-critically ill adults is 140–180 mg/dL.