The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial (DCCT) clearly demonstrated that improved blood-glucose control results in the decreased occurrence and progression of microvascular complications. The progression of acute medical conditions, commonly found in hospitalized diabetic patients, are also related to glycemic control. Glycemic control in the hospitalized setting is measured by point-of-care blood-glucose monitors. These monitors provide immediate feedback so that subcutaneous or infused insulin can be adjusted in a more timely and physiologic manner. The practitioner must become familiar with some of the limitations of these systems to ensure the accuracy of blood-glucose results.