For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on actions to help address stress during data monitoring. 87% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!
Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question
Question: RD is 82 years old, on basal insulin with bolus insulin at breakfast and dinner if need. RD just started using a sensor to track their daily blood sugars. After using the sensor for a few weeks, they share that they are feeling anxious and don’t know what to do with all this information. They even took extra bolus insulin yesterday to try and get blood sugars down. RD’s time in range is over 70%.
Which of the following is the most appropriate intervention?
Answer Choices:
- Refer RD to a mental health provider who specializes in diabetes.
- Reassure RD that their time is range is on target and they are not at risk of complications.
- Suggest that RD stops using a sensor and resumes using a glucose meter.
- Explore feelings of anxiety associated with the data and glucose levels.
Getting to the Best Answer
Answer 1 is incorrect. 1.83% chose this answer. “Refer RD to a mental health provider who specializes in diabetes.” RD is having an understandable response to the abundance of info provided by their new CGM and is experiencing diabetes distress. Based on the information provided, their anxiety doesn’t warrant a referral to a mental health specialist.
Answer 2 is incorrect. 6.26% of you chose this answer. “Reassure RD that their time is range is on target and they are not at risk of complications.” Although it is important to reassure RD that they have a time in range greater than 70%, it is important to acknowledge their feelings and explore strategies to address to diabetes distress.
Answer 3 is incorrect. About 4.43% of respondents chose this. “Suggest that RD stops using a sensor and resumes using a glucose meter.” Since RD has only been using the sensor for a few weeks, we wouldn’t want to suggest giving it up just yet. In addition, we want to learn more about what RD is experiencing and the issues that are increasing their anxiety and help with problem solving.
Finally, Answer 4 is correct. 87.48% chose this answer. “Explore feelings of anxiety associated with the data and glucose levels.” YES. GREAT JOB! This is the best person-centered answer that encourages RD to share their feelings so we can help with problem solving and evaluate the best approach for this individual.
We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!
Want to learn more about this question?
Unlock insights for managing diabetes distress with the experts!
Join us live on June 17 & 24, 2024 for our
ReVive 5 Diabetes Training Program:
The 2024 ADA Standards of Care now recommends annual screening for diabetes distress. If you are wondering how to screen for distress and tailor education based on the results, we encourage you to join this unique training program.
This two-session training provides the essential steps to address diabetes distress combined with an innovative approach to helping people make sense of their glucose data.
The first session is team-taught by experts in the field of diabetes distress and effective communication approaches. Dr. Larry Fisher kicks off the program by describing the difference between depression and distress and interpreting Diabetes Distress screening results. Dr. Susan Guzman uses a case study approach and step-by-step communication strategies to address responses from the Diabetes Distress screening tool. This session includes an abundance of evidence-based approaches that you can apply in your clinical setting.
Coach Beverly leads the second session. During this three-hour program, Beverly describes insulin dosing strategies, meter and sensor data interpretation, and common issues encountered by people using diabetes technology. Case studies include tools to help individuals discover what changes are needed to get glucose to target, coupled with the communication skills discussed in the first session. In conclusion, the team of instructors review a case study that pulls together all the ReVive 5 elements.
“ReVive 5” breathes new life into our relationship with diabetes, bringing a fresh perspective to both the person with diabetes and the provider.
Can’t join live? That’s okay. Your registration guarantees you access to the recorded version of the series, along with podcasts and resources for one full year.
Accredited Training Program:
- 15+ CEs – Includes the 7-hour ReVive 5 Training Program, Certificate, and 5 FREE bonus courses to supplement content.
- A comprehensive set of assessment tools, educational materials, log sheets, and resources.
Join us to gain the confidence and learn the skills needed to support people with diabetes to move forward in their self-management and discover the expert within.
Team of Experts:
ReVive 5 is taught by a team of 3 Interdisciplinary Experts:
- Lawrence Fisher, Ph.D., ABPP, Professor Emeritus, UCSF
- Susan Guzman, PhD
- Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM
Speakers Interviews – Learn more about the ReVive 5 Team
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