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Question of the Week | What defines overbasalization according to 2025 ADA Standards?

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

According to the new 2025 ADA Standards of Care, which of the following most accurately reflects overbasalization?

 

 

  1. basal insulin doses exceeding 0.5 units/kg/day
  2. significant bedtime-to-morning or postprandial-to-preprandial glucose differential
  3. low glycemic variability
  4. basal insulin dose exceeding 50 units twice per day

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Diabetes Mastery & Cert Readiness

Ready to ace your diabetes certification exams? Our Level 3 courses are the ultimate step in your exam prep journey, designed to fill in any knowledge gaps and solidify your expertise. Whether you’re preparing for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, these master-level courses offer comprehensive, evidence-based content grounded in the latest ADA Standards of Care in Diabetes.

Dive into critical areas like pharmacology, technology, lifestyle management, and Medical Nutrition Therapy, all while building the practical and strategic skills you need to deliver top-notch care. With video presentations, podcasts, practice tests, and engaging case studies, you’ll gain the confidence and competence to navigate complex diabetes scenarios. Plus, enjoy access to your course materials for a full year! Sign up now and set yourself up for certification success!

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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.

Question of the Week | ADA Standards identify another 1st Line med to treat kidney disease. Which one?

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

According to the ADA 2025 Standards, new clinical trials suggest that another diabetes medication (besides SGLT-2i) can be used as a first line agent to treat chronic kidney disease. 

Which of the folowing diabetes meds is effective as a first-line agent for people with CKD?

 

  1. Afrezza inhaled insulin
  2. Semaglutize (Ozempic)
  3. Amylin (Pramlintide)
  4. Sitagliptin (Januvia)

Want to learn more about this question?

Join us live on January 30th @ 11:30am PST for our

Level 2 | Standards of Care Course

This course, updated annually, is an essential review for anyone in the field of diabetes. Join Coach Beverly as she summarizes the annual updates to the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA) Standard of Medical Care in Diabetes & provides critical teaching points & content for healthcare professionals involved in diabetes care & education.

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information

Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.

Question of the Week | Diabetes and Malnutrition Risk

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

The 2025 ADA Standards of Care have added recommendations for malnutrition screening. 

According to these updated standards, who could be at risk for malnutrition?

 

  1. An individual with a BMI of 38 and 21% weight loss in the past 6 months.
  2. An individual on incretin therapy with intentional 18-pound weight loss in the past 2 months.
  3. An 86-year-old with type 1 diabetes and reported recent decline in activity and strength.
  4. All the above

Want to learn more about this question?

Join us live on Jan. 30th for our

2025 Standards of Care

Level 2

This course, updated annually, is an essential review for anyone in the field of diabetes. Join Coach Beverly as she summarizes the annual updates to the American Diabetes Association’s (ADA) Standard of Medical Care in Diabetes & provides critical teaching points & content for healthcare professionals involved in diabetes care & education.

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information

Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.

Question of the Week | Which precaution when starting tirzepitide according to 2025 ADA Standards?

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

TZ is a 32-year-old female with type 2 diabetes and an A1C of 8.3% who takes metformin 1000mg twice daily and is on oral contraception. TZ is going to start tirzepitide 2.5mg weekly to help with weight loss and blood glucose management. According to the 2025 ADA Standards, what precaution would we recommend to TZ along with the initiation of tirzepitide?

According to the 2025 ADA Standards, what precaution would we recommend to TZ along with the initiation of tirzepitide?

 

  1. Reduce the metformin by 50% to prevent side effects and maintain B12 levels.
  2. Assess TZ’s risk of acidosis before initiating dual therapies.
  3. Provide a glucagon emergency kit in case of severe hypoglycemia.
  4. Suggest using a second form of contraception for at least 4 weeks.

Want to learn more about this question?

Join us live starting Jan. 8th @ 11:30am PST

Level 1 Diabetes Fundamentals

Nurse with clipboard promoting diabetes education course.

This bundle is specifically designed for healthcare professionals who want to learn more about diabetes fundamentals for their clinical practice or for those who are studying for the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) exam.

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information

Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.

Question of the Week | Best Meds to Treat MASH – 2025 Standards

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

In the 2025 ADA Standards, they have updated the term Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) to Metabolic Associated Steatohepatitis (MASH). They also recommend pharmacologic agents along with lifestyle interventions to treat people with diabetes and MASH. 

Which of the following are the recommended diabetes medications to treat MASH?

 

  1. Vitamin E and SGLT-2
  2. Pioglitazone and/or GLP-1 RA / GIP
  3. Fish oil supplements and statin
  4. Metformin and/or bolus insulin therapy

Want to learn more about this question?

Join us live on Dec. 17th for our

Level 2 | Meds Management Update for Type 2 Diabetes

Join us live on December 17, 2024, at 11:30 am PST for our Level 2 | Meds Management Update for Type 2 Diabetes

Title: Level 2 | Meds Management Update for Type 2 Diabetes | 1.5 CEs

This course is included in: Level 2 – Standards of Care. Purchase this course individually for $29 or enroll in the entire bundle and save 45% (discount already applied). Don’t worry if you can’t make it live, your registration gives you access to the recorded version for a full year.

Diabetes Education Services Online University Courses are an excellent way to study for your exam anytime and anywhere that is convenient for you. You will have immediate access to your courses for 1 year after your purchase date. Each online course includes a: video presentation, podcast, practice test, and additional resources.

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information

Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.

Question of the Week | What do the NEW 2025 ADA Standards Say?

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

 

What do the NEW 2025 ADA Standards Say?

According to the Newly Published 2025 Standards of Care, which of the following statements reflect the latest guidelines to treat hyperglycemic crises?

 

 

  1. Administer low dose basal insulin analog in addition to intravenous insulin infusion to improve glucose management.
  2. If serum pH is below 7.4, administer IV bicarb, along with a glucose infusion to resolve severe acidosis.
  3. To differentiate between DKA and HHS, the most important lab indicators are the anion gap and glucose levels.
  4. Lactated Ringers is now the preferred intravenous solution for fluid resuscitation.

Want to learn more about this question?

Check out these upcoming class offerings!

Why Attend These Webinars?

Diabetes Education Services is a trusted resource for diabetes education, and their free webinars offer valuable insights into various aspects of diabetes care and management. These sessions are designed not only to expand your knowledge but also to help you prepare for certification in diabetes education. Whether you’re just starting your journey toward certification or looking to deepen your expertise, these webinars provide the tools and information you need to succeed. 
  • Accessible learning: All webinars are available online, so you can attend from the comfort of your home or office.
  • Expert-led: Presentations are led by experienced diabetes educators, healthcare professionals, and researchers.
  • Practical advice: Each session is designed to give you actionable strategies that can be applied in your daily life or practice.
  • Up-to-date information: Stay informed about the latest research, guidelines, and technology in diabetes care.

How to Register?

Register above or simply visit our website.

Why Attend These Webinars?

Diabetes Education Services is a trusted resource for diabetes education, and their free webinars offer valuable insights into various aspects of diabetes care and management. These sessions are designed not only to expand your knowledge but also to help you prepare for certification in diabetes education. Whether you’re just starting your journey toward certification or looking to deepen your expertise, these webinars provide the tools and information you need to succeed. 
  • Accessible learning: All webinars are available online, so you can attend from the comfort of your home or office.
  • Expert-led: Presentations are led by experienced diabetes educators, healthcare professionals, and researchers.
  • Practical advice: Each session is designed to give you actionable strategies that can be applied in your daily life or practice.
  • Up-to-date information: Stay informed about the latest research, guidelines, and technology in diabetes care.

For more information or any questions, please email [email protected].

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information

Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.

Question of the Week | Low carb diets and SGLT-2’s a good mix?

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

ST is a 56-year-old presenting for MNT and diabetes education. Their last A1c was 7.4%, and they are currently taking 1000 mg of Metformin and 10 mg of empagliflozin daily for glucose management. They recently read that a very low-carbohydrate eating pattern can help individuals with type 2 diabetes reduce A1C and the need for additional medications and are motivated to implement diet changes.

What would be your primary considerations and guidance in response to ST?

  1. ST is motivated for change, encourage their desire to implement a very low-carbohydrate diet as it is safe for all individuals with diabetes.
  2. ST should avoid a very low-carbohydrate diet.
  3. A very low-carbohydrate diet may be appropriate if ST transitions off the SGLT2 inhibitor.
  4. ST should follow a fixed carbohydrate intake at each meal to align with their medication regimen.

Want to learn more about this question?

Check out these upcoming class offerings!

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information

Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.

Question of the Week | A1C 13.6% – Next Important Step?

Question of the Week Diabetes Education Services

KT is a 17-year-old with newly diagnosed diabetes and an A1C of 13.6%.  The provider starts KT on 30 units of basal insulin and 10mg empagliflozin (Jardiance).  KT is asked to get C-peptide levels checked and their C-peptide level is 0.9 ng/mL.

Based on this information, what is the next most important step?

 

  1. Add bolus insulin and stop empagliflozin
  2. Discuss the importance of starting CGM
  3. Evaluate auto immune markers
  4. Decrease basal insulin and start metformin

Interested in becoming a CDCES but not sure where to start?
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Our FREE webinars will help you discover the steps required to become a CDCES and will transform your test anxiety into calm self-confidence and test-taking readiness.

  • Want to learn more about the qualifications to take the CDCES exam? Register for our Free “Becoming A Diabetes Specialist” Step 1 Webinar.
  • Taking the CDCES Exam in the next 6 months? Register for our Step 2, “Prep to Take the CDCES Exam” Free Webinar.

Step 1: Becoming a Diabetes Specialist (CDCES)

If you are a health care professional considering becoming a CDCES and want to learn more about eligibility and benefits of joining the Diabetes Education Community, this FREE webinar is for YOU. Coach Beverly will provide clarification on requirements, exam content, and study strategies to prepare for success.

  • Benefits of becoming a CDCES
  • CDCES eligibility requirements for 2025
  • Exam outline and study strategies to succeed

2025 Step 1 Webinar
Handouts

Step 2: Preapring to Take the CDCES Exam

We will review examination process, sample test questions, and the reasoning behind choosing the BEST answers.We will review examination process, sample test questions, and the reasoning behind choosing the BEST answers.

  • Test content updates for 2025
  • Strategies to experience exam success
  • Review of study tips and test taking practice questions

2025 Step 2 Webinar
Handouts

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Don’t worry, if you register, we will send you a link to the recorded version.

Instructor

Picture of Coach Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, BC-ADM, CDCES
Coach Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, BC-ADM, CDCES

Author, Nurse, Educator, Clinician, and Innovator, Beverly has specialized in diabetes management for over twenty years and has successfully passed the CDCES exam six times. As president and founder of Diabetes Education Services, Beverly is dedicated to optimizing diabetes care and improving the lives of those with diabetes.

“Becoming a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) is one of the best professional and personal decisions I have ever made.” – Coach Beverly Thomassian

Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post weekly Blog Bytes that are informative and FREE! Every week we post one exam practice Question of the Week and Rationale of the Week. Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the certification exam. CBDCE and ADCES do not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES or BC-ADM exams, except for those published by CBDCE & ADCES.