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Rationale of the Week | Best Action for Steroid-Induced Hyperglycemia?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on the sudden onset of hyperglycemia. 84% 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 by clicking here.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

A 67-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes (A1C 7.2%) is receiving chemotherapy for metastatic breast cancer. As part of her treatment, she receives high-dose dexamethasone every morning for 3 days following each chemotherapy cycle. She takes metformin and insulin glargine daily. Her fasting glucose values remain between 95–120 mg/dL, but glucose levels increase to 260–320 mg/dL after lunch and dinner on steroid treatment days.

Which intervention is the most appropriate?

  • A. Increase the basal insulin dose by 50% along with metformin dose on chemotherapy days.
  • B. Hold basal insulin and add SGLT2 inhibitor along with the metformin.
  • C. Recommend limiting carbohydrates until chemotherapy is completed.
  • D. Use a combination of intermediate-acting and rapid-acting insulin on chemotherapy days.

Getting to the Best Answer

If you are thinking about taking the certification exam, this practice test question will set you up for success. Test writers anticipate possible answers based on the details in the question. They will wave those “juicy answers” right under your nose. Your job is to weed through the particulars, pluck out the most important elements and choose the BEST answer.

Answer A is incorrect. 8.50% chose this answer, “Increase the basal insulin dose by 50% along with metformin dose on chemotherapy days.” Basal insulin primarily targets fasting glucose, which is already within target. An increase in basal insulin may lead to nocturnal or fasting hypoglycemia and will not adequately address post-meal hyperglycemia.

Answer B is incorrect. 2.77% of you chose this answer, “Hold basal insulin and add SGLT2 inhibitor along with the metformin.” This answer is not correct. SGLT2 inhibitors do not provide rapid glucose lowering needed for acute steroid-induced hyperglycemia. Also, stopping the insulin could lead to dangerous blood glucose elevations due to the side effects of chemotherapy including, dehydration, infection, poor oral intake, leading to increased risk of hyperglycemic crisis during treatment periods.

Answer C is incorrect. 4.74% of respondents chose this: “Recommend limiting carbohydrates until chemotherapy is completed.” This answer is incorrect. Restricting carbohydrates excessively during cancer treatment may worsen nutritional status and doesn’t address steroid-induced hyperglycemia. Medication adjustments—not severe dietary restriction—are the treatment of choice.

Finally, Answer D is correct. 83.99% chose this answer, “Use a combination of intermediate-acting and rapid-acting insulin on chemotherapy days.” Great job! You chose the best answer. Glucocorticoids commonly produce postprandial hyperglycemia, particularly in the afternoon and evening after morning dosing. Matching insulin therapy to the steroid’s glycemic effect by using NPH insulin along with bolus mealtime insulin, is generally more effective than simply increasing basal insulin. Continuous glucose monitoring (CGM), when available, can help identify steroid-related glucose patterns.

For More Info on Cancer and Diabetes, we have 2 great resources for you.

  1. Decoding the Cancer and Diabetes Connection Article by Beverly Thomassian
  2.  Cancer and Diabetes Webinar (1.5 CEs) Airing July 21, at 11:30am. .

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?

Join us July 21st for our

Level 5 | Cancer & Diabetes Webinar

Explore the unexpected link between cancer and diabetes — and master glucose management strategies for people with diabetes undergoing treatment.

Individuals with cancer often experience hyperglycemia secondary to treatment, which can increase the risk of infection and other complications. Recent research has also identified a significant link between diabetes and cancer. This course uses a case study approach to explore this connection and provide practical strategies for managing steroid-induced hyperglycemia and improving quality of life for people navigating both conditions.

Course Topics:

  • Discuss the relationship between cancer, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance
  • State 3 benefits of normalizing glucose levels during chemotherapy
  • Using a case study approach, discuss strategies to improve glucose levels and quality of life

Rationale of the Week | Sudden Onset of Hyperglycemia – Why?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on the sudden onset of hyperglycemia. 66% 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 by clicking here.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

A 58-year-old man without a history of diabetes is receiving treatment with an immune checkpoint inhibitor for metastatic melanoma. Four months after beginning therapy, he presents with polyuria, weight loss, nausea, and fatigue. Laboratory findings include:

  • Plasma glucose: 465 mg/dL
  • Blood ketones: Positive
  • Arterial pH: 7.18
  • C-peptide: Undetectable

Which mechanism most likely explains this sudden hyperglycemia?

  • A. Progressive insulin resistance caused chronically elevated cortisol levels
  • B. Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells
  • C. Glucocorticoid-induced hepatic glucose production
  • D. Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency from chronic pancreatitis

Getting to the Best Answer

If you are thinking about taking the certification exam, this practice test question will set you up for success. Test writers anticipate possible answers based on the details in the question. They will wave those “juicy answers” right under your nose. Your job is to weed through the particulars, pluck out the most important elements and choose the BEST answer.

Answer A is incorrect. 9.84% chose this answer, “Progressive insulin resistance caused chronically elevated cortisol levels.” This answer is incorrect. Insulin resistance due to elevated cortisol levels gradually elevates glucose levels and is not usually associated with severe insulin deficiency, undetectable C-peptide, or DKA.

Answer B is correct. 66.14% of you chose this answer, “Autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells.” You chose the best answer. Great Job! Immune checkpoint inhibitors can precipitate rapid-onset autoimmune diabetes, often presenting as diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Beta-cell destruction is typically abrupt, resulting in profound insulin deficiency requiring lifelong insulin therapy.

Answer C is incorrect. 19.29% of respondents chose this: “Glucocorticoid-induced hepatic glucose production.” Answer C is incorrect. Although corticosteroids commonly cause hyperglycemia, they generally produce insulin resistance rather than complete beta-cell destruction or absent C-peptide. There is no indication this patient is receiving glucocorticoids.

Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 4.72% chose this answer, “Pancreatic exocrine insufficiency from chronic pancreatitis.” Pancreatitis-related diabetes (type 3c diabetes) usually develops over time and is associated with exocrine pancreatic dysfunction, malabsorption, and a history of pancreatic disease—not sudden autoimmune beta-cell destruction and DKA following immunotherapy.

For More Info on Cancer and Diabetes, we have 2 great resources for you.

  1. Decoding the Cancer and Diabetes Connection Article by Beverly Thomassian
  2.  Cancer and Diabetes Webinar (1.5 CEs) Airing July 21, at 11:30am. .

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?

Join us July 21st for our

Level 5 | Cancer & Diabetes Webinar

Explore the unexpected link between cancer and diabetes — and master glucose management strategies for people with diabetes undergoing treatment.

Individuals with cancer often experience hyperglycemia secondary to treatment, which can increase the risk of infection and other complications. Recent research has also identified a significant link between diabetes and cancer. This course uses a case study approach to explore this connection and provide practical strategies for managing steroid-induced hyperglycemia and improving quality of life for people navigating both conditions.

Course Topics:

  • Discuss the relationship between cancer, hyperglycemia, and insulin resistance
  • State 3 benefits of normalizing glucose levels during chemotherapy
  • Using a case study approach, discuss strategies to improve glucose levels and quality of life

Rationale of the Week | Diabetes and Sleep Health

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on diabetes and sleep health. 69% 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 by clicking here.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

SW is a 52-year-old living with type 2 diabetes. Over the past year, A1C increased from 7.1% to 8.2%, and blood pressure during their visit was 146/88 mmHg. They report increased fatigue, daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and waking up several times during the night. SW works rotating night shifts at a manufacturing plant.

Which of the following responses would best align with the 2026 ADA Standards of Care?. 

  • A. Reassure SW that the sleep complaints are a normal consequence of shift work and focus the visit on intensifying glucose-lowering and antihypertensive medications to address the rising A1C and elevated blood pressure.
  • B. Recommend SW take an over-the-counter melatonin supplement nightly, intensify glucose-lowering medications, and schedule a follow-up in 3 months to reassess A1C and blood pressure.
  • C. Screen for sleep health and disorders and refer to a sleep medicine specialist or other qualified specialist, as indicated.
  • D. Discuss with SW the impacts of night shift work, consider changing to a day shift to improve diabetes self-management, A1c and reduce blood pressure.

Getting to the Best Answer

If you are thinking about taking the certification exam, this practice test question will set you up for success. Test writers anticipate possible answers based on the details in the question. They will wave those “juicy answers” right under your nose. Your job is to weed through the particulars, pluck out the most important elements and choose the BEST answer.

Answer A is incorrect. 10.96% chose this answer, “Reassure SW that the sleep complaints are a normal consequence of shift work and focus the visit on intensifying glucose-lowering and antihypertensive medications to address the rising A1C and elevated blood pressure.” This answer is incorrect. While intensifying diabetes medications and addressing hypertension are important components of care, dismissing the sleep complaints as simply a normal consequence of shift work does not align with the 2026 ADA Standards of Care. Keep reading for additional recommendations.

Answer B is incorrect. 4.39% of you chose this answer, “Recommend SW take an over-the-counter melatonin supplement nightly, intensify glucose-lowering medications, and schedule a follow-up in 3 months to reassess A1C and blood pressure.” his answer is incorrect. Although sleep is recognized as a key component of diabetes management, the 2026 ADA Standards of Care do not recommend over-the-counter melatonin as a primary intervention for sleep complaints in people with diabetes. SW’s symptoms with excessive daytime sleepiness and frequent nocturnal awakenings warrant evaluation for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and other sleep disorders. Untreated OSA contributes to hyperglycemia, insulin resistance, and hypertension through sympathetic nervous system activation.

Answer C is correct. About 69.30% of respondents chose this: “Screen for sleep health and disorders and refer to a sleep medicine specialist or other qualified specialist, as indicated.” Answer C is correct. You chose the best answer. Great Job! This response directly aligns with the 2026 ADA Standards of Care, Section 5 recommendation to screen for sleep health and refer to sleep medicine specialists and/or qualified behavioral health professionals when indicated. SW’s symptoms are consistent with possible OSA, which has a prevalence of approximately 55% in type 2 diabetes, and the combination of worsening A1C and elevated blood pressure may be partly driven by an untreated sleep disorder. Additionally, individuals with diabetes who perform shift work increase their risk for circadian rhythm disorders, which are associated with elevated A1C, neuropathy, and decreased psychological well-being.

Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 15.35% chose this answer, “Discuss with SW the impacts of night shift work, consider changing to a day shift to improve diabetes self-management, A1c and reduce blood pressure.” Answer D is incorrect. While the 2026 ADA Standards of Care acknowledge that shift work increases the risk for circadian rhythm disorders and is associated with elevated A1C, the Standards do not recommend that individuals quit shift work as a prerequisite for diabetes management. Advising a patient to quit their job is neither practical nor evidence-based and does not address the immediate need for sleep disorder screening and management

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?

Enroll in our Solving Glucose Mysteries For Type 2
to Watch On-Demand Webinar

Solve common glucose mysteries and optimize time-in-range for people with type 2 diabetes.

Why are glucose levels elevated in the morning? When should insulin be started? What is the next step to get A1c to target? During this course Coach Beverly addresses each of these glucose mysteries and more, using a person-centered approach. She describes a stepwise approach to evaluate glucose patterns and correct common issues encountered by people living with type 2 diabetes.

Course Topics:

  • Describe common glucose mysteries encountered by people with type 2 diabetes
  • Discuss assessment strategies to determine a realistic dosing strategy using national guidelines
  • Use a stepwise approach to evaluate factors affecting glucose patterns
  • State interventions to increase time-in-range and improve quality of life

Course Objectives

Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:

  • Apply current standards of care and evidence-based guidelines to develop and adjust individualized treatment plans in complex diabetes cases.
  • Calculate and fine-tune insulin dosing using advanced pattern management strategies in patients with fluctuating needs, including those using pumps or those hospitalized.

Rationale of the Week | Meal Skipping and Postprandial Hyperglycemia

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on meal skipping and postprandial hyperglycemia. 97% 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 by clicking here.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

A 42-year-old woman with type 2 diabetes presents for follow-up. She reports trying to lose weight by “cutting carbs,” but admits she often skips meals during the day and overeats at night. Current medications include metformin and basal insulin. CGM data shows fasting glucose values within target range, but frequent post-dinner glucose excursions above 240 mg/dL. She asks whether she should continue avoiding carbohydrates altogether.  

Which of the following responses by the CDCES is MOST appropriate?

  • A. Recommend eliminating carbohydrates completely to improve glycemic management
  • B. Encourage balanced meal timing and distribution of carbohydrate intake throughout the day
  • C. Advise increasing protein intake only at dinner to prevent glucose excursions
  • D. Recommend avoiding all evening snacks regardless of hunger level

Getting to the Best Answer

If you are thinking about taking the certification exam, this practice test question will set you up for success. Test writers anticipate possible answers based on the details in the question. They will wave those “juicy answers” right under your nose. Your job is to weed through the particulars, pluck out the most important elements and choose the BEST answer.

Answer A is incorrect. 1.91% chose this answer, “Recommend eliminating carbohydrates completely to improve glycemic management.” This is not the best answer. Complete carbohydrate elimination is not recommended for most individuals with diabetes. ADA SOC emphasize individualized meal planning and sustainable eating patterns over strict carbohydrate avoidance.

Answer B is correct. 96.65% of you chose this answer, “Encourage balanced meal timing and distribution of carbohydrate intake throughout the day.” Great job! This is the best answer. Current ADA Standards of Care recommendations emphasize individualized meal planning and sustainable eating patterns rather than complete carbohydrate elimination. Skipping meals may contribute to excessive evening hunger and larger postprandial glucose excursions. Supporting balanced meal timing and carbohydrate distribution can improve overall glycemia.

Answer C is incorrect. About 0.96% of respondents chose this: “Advise increasing protein intake only at dinner to prevent glucose excursions.” This is not the best answer. Increasing protein only at dinner does not address the patient’s overall eating pattern or meal timing. High-protein and high-fat meals may also contribute to delayed postprandial hyperglycemia.

Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 0.48% chose this answer, “Recommend avoiding all evening snacks regardless of hunger level.” This is not the best answer. Avoiding all evening snacks is overly restrictive and does not address the likely driver of evening overeating, which is meal skipping earlier in the day. ADA SOC supports individualized, sustainable eating strategies.

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?

Join us live in San Diego for our

DiabetesEd Training Program

Brand new agenda for 2026!

🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More

Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026

Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams

🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!

📅

2-Day Conference

Oct 22–23, 2026

⏱️

15.5 Live CEs

+ 17 bonus CEs

🏅

CDCES & BC-ADM

Exam Prep + Renewal

📍

San Diego, CA

1.7 mi from airport

Advance Your Expertise and Prepare for Your Future

The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.

Day 1 – ADA/AACE Standards of Care Boot Camp

Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.

Day 2 – Insulin, Tech, MNT and Case Studies

Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.

Add-On Day 3 – Engaging the Disengaged

On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.

Read more below

🌟Registration Options at a Glance

📜 Essentials

Registration
+ Printed Syllabus

$559.00

🌟 Deluxe

Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book

$589.00

🏆 Complete – Best Value!

Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book

$669.00

5 Reasons to Attend

  1. Led by national experts 👩‍⚕️Dr. Diana Isaacs (Cleveland Clinic), Coach Beverly 🧢 (30+ years of experience), and Christine Craig (nutrition whiz).
  2. 🌴 Location makes for a great vacation
  3. Networking, walking paths, connection
  4. Ready yourself for the diabetes future🚀
  5. Have fun, win prizes, play DiaBingo 😄

What's Included?

  • 🍽️ Healthy breakfasts, lunch, refreshments and coffee ☕
  • 📘 100-page printed syllabus
  • 🎤 2 days of engaging, expert-led education with case studies.
  • 🎓 12 FREE online courses ($375 value)
  • Free MedPocketCard & Coach Bev’s Book 📗 Healing through Connection.

Add on a 3rd Day!
Enroll in ENGAGING THE DISENGAGED
Strategies for Promoting Behavior Change in Diabetes
October 24, 2026

Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.

Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?

The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.

In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.

You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!

Rationale of the Week | Best Med for HFpEF

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on the best medication for HFpEF. 79% 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 by clicking here.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

JL has T2DM, and heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Is currently on Metformin 1000mg BID and empagliflozin 25mg daily. Their A1C is 8.1%. 

Which agent should be added next, to provide maximum heart failure protection?

  • A. GLP-1 Receptor Agonist
  • B. Sulfonylurea (e.g., Glimepiride)
  • C. DPP-4 inhibitor (e.g., Sitagliptin)
  • D. Basal insulin based on body weight

Getting to the Best Answer

If you are thinking about taking the certification exam, this practice test question will set you up for success. Test writers anticipate possible answers based on the details in the question. They will wave those “juicy answers” right under your nose. Your job is to weed through the particulars, pluck out the most important elements and choose the BEST answer.

Answer A is correct. 79.19% chose this answer, “GLP-1 Receptor Agonist.” Great job, this is the best answer! For patients with heart failure and preserved ejection fraction, a GLP-1 RA is prioritized to preserve heart function, regardless of A1C.

Answer B is incorrect. 6.04% of you chose this answer, “Sulfonylurea (e.g., Glimepiride).” This is not the best answer. Sulfonylureas will lower blood glucose but will not provide the specific heart protective benefits required for this high-risk individual.

Answer C is incorrect. About 8.05% of respondents chose this: “DPP-4 inhibitor (e.g., Sitagliptin).” This is not the best answer. DPP-IVs not be a good choice, since they don’t have heart protective benefits, and alogliptin and saxagliptin can cause heart failure.

Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 6.71% chose this answer, “Basal insulin based on body weight.” This is not the best answer. While basal insulin will help lower blood glucose levels, it won’t help with heart failure.

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!

Level 4 | 3 Steps to DeFeet Amputation;
Assess, Screen, & Report

Join us on June 11, 2026, at 11:30 am PST, for the 2026 webinar update 

Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM, brings extensive expertise in diabetes foot care, amputation prevention, and comprehensive health assessment.

What’s included:

  • On-demand course with video presentation, podcast, and downloadable resources
  • Free teaching tools, strategies, and documentation forms adapted from the Lower Extremity Prevention Program (LEAP)
  • 1 full year of access to all course materials
  • Activity dates: 6/11/2026 to 6/11/2028
  • Estimated completion time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Bridge Scholarships Now Open for

DiabetesEd Training Program

Applications Due July 20th, 2026

Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)

If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!

Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026

  1. To recognize U.S. healthcare professionals who are making a difference in under-resourced communities; and
  2. To support applicants’ efforts to become a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, CDCES, and
  3. To provide financial assistance for the DiabetesEd Specialist Course registration fee.
  • Health care professionals who are working toward their CDCES and who provide care to an underserved community that lacks access to Diabetes Specialists and healthcare resources
  • Applicants must be in the process of gaining practice hours to take the CDCES Exam within next 3 years.
  • Preference is given to those facing financial hardships that are interfering with their ability to pursue their dream of achieving their CDCES.
  • All applicants must be a U.S. resident.

Join us live in San Diego for our

DiabetesEd Training Program

Brand new agenda for 2026!

🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More

Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026

Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams

🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!

📅

2-Day Conference

Oct 22–23, 2026

⏱️

15.5 Live CEs

+ 17 bonus CEs

🏅

CDCES & BC-ADM

Exam Prep + Renewal

📍

San Diego, CA

1.7 mi from airport

Advance Your Expertise and Prepare for Your Future

The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.

Day 1 – ADA/AACE Standards of Care Boot Camp

Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.

Day 2 – Insulin, Tech, MNT and Case Studies

Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.

Add-On Day 3 – Engaging the Disengaged

On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.

Read more below

🌟Registration Options at a Glance

📜 Essentials

Registration
+ Printed Syllabus

$559.00

🌟 Deluxe

Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book

$589.00

🏆 Complete – Best Value!

Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book

$669.00

5 Reasons to Attend

  1. Led by national experts 👩‍⚕️Dr. Diana Isaacs (Cleveland Clinic), Coach Beverly 🧢 (30+ years of experience), and Christine Craig (nutrition whiz).
  2. 🌴 Location makes for a great vacation
  3. Networking, walking paths, connection
  4. Ready yourself for the diabetes future🚀
  5. Have fun, win prizes, play DiaBingo 😄

What's Included?

  • 🍽️ Healthy breakfasts, lunch, refreshments and coffee ☕
  • 📘 100-page printed syllabus
  • 🎤 2 days of engaging, expert-led education with case studies.
  • 🎓 12 FREE online courses ($375 value)
  • Free MedPocketCard & Coach Bev’s Book 📗 Healing through Connection.

Add on a 3rd Day!
Enroll in ENGAGING THE DISENGAGED
Strategies for Promoting Behavior Change in Diabetes
October 24, 2026

Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.

Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?

The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.

In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.

You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!


Rationale of the Week | A1C 7.4% & Struggling with Hypoglycemia

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on A1C 7.4% & struggling with hypoglycemia. 83% 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 by clicking here.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

A 16-year-old with Type 1 Diabetes uses a CGM and has a Time in Range (70-180 mg/dL) of 72%, but their GMI (Glucose Management Indicator) is 7.4% and they report frequent serious hypoglycemic episodes during the night at least twice a week. 

What is the priority intervention?

  • A. Increase the TIR goal to more than 80% to lower the A1C.
  • B. Lower the high-glucose alert setting to 150 mg/dL.
  • C. Recommend a transition to a traditional finger-stick regimen.
  • D. Adjust basal rates to reduce Time Below Range (< 70 mg/dL).

Getting to the Best Answer

If you are thinking about taking the certification exam, this practice test question will set you up for success. Test writers anticipate possible answers based on the details in the question. They will wave those “juicy answers” right under your nose. Your job is to weed through the particulars, pluck out the most important elements and choose the BEST answer.

Answer A is incorrect. 4.78% chose this answer, “Increase the TIR goal to more than 80% to lower the A1C.”  Even though the A1C and GMI are above the target, this individual is experiencing frequent hypoglycemia. Increasing the TIR target to 80%, would increase the frequency of their already dangerous hypoglycemic episodes.

Answer B is incorrect. 4.78% of you chose this answer, “Lower the high-glucose alert setting to 150 mg/dL.” Lowering the high glucose alert won’t help prevent hypoglycemic events. It may instead cause alarm fatigue, since the alarm would sound when glucose levels were 150 or greater.

Answer C is incorrect. About 6.96% of respondents chose this: “Recommend a transition to a traditional finger-stick regimen.” We want to maintain the CGM so the individual is alerted to lows and can take immediate action.

Finally, Answer D is correct. 83.48% chose this answer, “Adjust basal rates to reduce Time Below Range (< 70 mg/dL).” You chose the best answer. Great Job! This best answer recognizes that basal rates are most likely causing hypoglycemia during the night. Reducing the basal rates will decrease the frequency of hypoglycemia. For safety, fix the “lows” is the priority before addressing glucose above target.

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?

Join us live in San Diego for our

DiabetesEd Training Program

Brand new agenda for 2026!

🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More

Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026

Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams

🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!

📅

2-Day Conference

Oct 22–23, 2026

⏱️

15.5 Live CEs

+ 17 bonus CEs

🏅

CDCES & BC-ADM

Exam Prep + Renewal

📍

San Diego, CA

1.7 mi from airport

Advance Your Expertise and Prepare for Your Future

The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.

Day 1 – ADA/AACE Standards of Care Boot Camp

Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.

Day 2 – Insulin, Tech, MNT and Case Studies

Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.

Add-On Day 3 – Engaging the Disengaged

On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.

Read more below

🌟Registration Options at a Glance

📜 Essentials

Registration
+ Printed Syllabus

$559.00

🌟 Deluxe

Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book

$589.00

🏆 Complete – Best Value!

Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book

$669.00

5 Reasons to Attend

  1. Led by national experts 👩‍⚕️Dr. Diana Isaacs (Cleveland Clinic), Coach Beverly 🧢 (30+ years of experience), and Christine Craig (nutrition whiz).
  2. 🌴 Location makes for a great vacation
  3. Networking, walking paths, connection
  4. Ready yourself for the diabetes future🚀
  5. Have fun, win prizes, play DiaBingo 😄

What's Included?

  • 🍽️ Healthy breakfasts, lunch, refreshments and coffee ☕
  • 📘 100-page printed syllabus
  • 🎤 2 days of engaging, expert-led education with case studies.
  • 🎓 12 FREE online courses ($375 value)
  • Free MedPocketCard & Coach Bev’s Book 📗 Healing through Connection.

Add on a 3rd Day!
Enroll in ENGAGING THE DISENGAGED
Strategies for Promoting Behavior Change in Diabetes
October 24, 2026

Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.

Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?

The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.

In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.

You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!

Rationale of the Week | Who would most benefit from metformin therapy?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on who would most benefit from metformin therapy. 63.26% 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 by clicking here.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

Which individual with prediabetes would derive the greatest long-term benefit from the initiation of metformin therapy according to the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) outcomes?

  • A. A 72-year-old male with a BMI of 24 kg/m².
  • B. A 45-year-old female with a history of gestational diabetes (GDM).
  • C. A 25-year-old male with a BMI of 32 and a fasting glucose of 98 mg/dL.
  • D. A 65-year-old female with a BMI of 28 kg/m².

Getting to the Best Answer

If you are thinking about taking the certification exam, this practice test question will set you up for success. Test writers anticipate possible answers based on the details in the question. They will wave those “juicy answers” right under your nose. Your job is to weed through the particulars, pluck out the most important elements and choose the BEST answer.

Answer A is incorrect. 5.43% chose this answer, “A. A 72-year-old male with a BMI of 24 kg/m².” This is not the best answer since Metformin’s benefit decreases with age and is less effective in those with lower BMIs.

Answer B is correct. 63.26% of you chose this answer, “45-year-old female with a history of gestational diabetes (GDM).” Correct. Yes, this is the best answer! Great Job! The Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) trial data proved that Metformin was highly effective for women with a history of GDM, reducing their risk of developing T2DM by about 50%.

Answer C is incorrect. About 19.35% of respondents chose this: “A 25-year-old male with a BMI of 32 and a fasting glucose of 98 mg/dL.” This is a juicy answer, but even though the BMI is elevated, since the BG is below the diagnostic threshold, metformin is not indicated.

Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 11.96% chose this answer, “A 65-year-old female with a BMI of 28 kg/m².” Another false answer. Even though this person is 65 with an elevated BMI, there is no glucose information that indicates that they would benefit from metformin.

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!

Bridge Scholarships Now Open for

DiabetesEd Training Program

Applications Due July 20th, 2026

Are you a healthcare professional providing diabetes care in an under-resourced community? Are you working toward earning your certification in diabetes education (CDCES or BC-ADM?)

If yes, please consider applying for our Bridge Scholarship, which covers the registration cost for the DiabetesEd Training Conference in San Diego, Oct 22-23, 2026 (value of $559). This program will provide you with the content needed to prepare for mastery-level diabetes certification and beyond!

Recipients will be awarded the Training Conference reg fee, including the live program, printed syllabus, 30+ CE’s, plus access to the online bonus courses for one year! Applications Due on July 20th, 2026

Scholarship Goals

  1. To recognize U.S. healthcare professionals who are making a difference in under-resourced communities; and
  2. To support applicants’ efforts to become a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist, CDCES, and
  3. To provide financial assistance for the DiabetesEd Specialist Course registration fee.

What's Included?

  • Health care professionals who are working toward their CDCES and who provide care to an underserved community that lacks access to Diabetes Specialists and healthcare resources
  • Applicants must be in the process of gaining practice hours to take the CDCES Exam within next 3 years.
  • Preference is given to those facing financial hardships that are interfering with their ability to pursue their dream of achieving their CDCES.
  • All applicants must be a U.S. resident.

Join us live in San Diego for our

DiabetesEd Training Program

Brand new agenda for 2026!

🌟Updated Schedule: ADA Boot Camp, Tech, MNT & More

Live in Beautiful San Diego – Oct 22-23, 2026

Re-Ignite your Passion & Prepare for Diabetes Certification Exams

🎓 Earn 30+ CEs: AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!

📅

2-Day Conference

Oct 22–23, 2026

⏱️

15.5 Live CEs

+ 17 bonus CEs

🏅

CDCES & BC-ADM

Exam Prep + Renewal

📍

San Diego, CA

1.7 mi from airport

Advance Your Expertise and Prepare for Your Future

The field of diabetes care is expanding and evolving rapidly. This unique training conference will keep you on the cutting edge plus prepare you for certification exams. It also fulfills the Standards of Care renewal requirement. Join us for two days of intensive education that is fun and inspiring. Add on the optional Day 3 (Engaging the Disengaged), to complete your conference exeperience.

Day 1 – ADA/AACE Standards of Care Boot Camp

Coach Beverly and Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BC-ADM, CDCES co-lead an exciting day that brings the ADA and AACE Standards to life. Gain fresh insights, practical tools, and a deeper understanding of the latest in person-centered diabetes care. After attending, you will be empowered to share the latest in diabetes care with your colleagues and the people in your care.

Day 2 – Insulin, Tech, MNT and Case Studies

Take your knowledge to the next level with this intensive deep-dive into insulin therapy, dosing and pattern management with Dr. Diana Isaacs. Next, stay for the diabetes tech show-and-tell as Diana demonstrates the specs of the latest pumps and sensors. After lunch, nutrition whiz Christine Craig, MS, RDN, CDCES expertly details the latest in MNT and provides real strategies on translating this content to your clinical practice. You will have a chance to put it all together as Coach Beverly leads you through a series of case studies that integrates content from Day 1 and Day 2.

Add-On Day 3 – Engaging the Disengaged

On Saturday, join this exceptional day-long program led by William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES & Susan Guzman, PhD (Behavioral Diabetes Institute) that reveals psychosocial forces behind diabetes self-management — tools to break through resistance and inspire change.

Read more below

🌟Registration Options at a Glance

📜 Essentials

Registration
+ Printed Syllabus

$559.00

🌟 Deluxe

Essentials
+ ADA Standards Book

$589.00

🏆 Complete – Best Value!

Deluxe
+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book

$669.00

5 Reasons to Attend

  1. Led by national experts 👩‍⚕️Dr. Diana Isaacs (Cleveland Clinic), Coach Beverly 🧢 (30+ years of experience), and Christine Craig (nutrition whiz).
  2. 🌴 Location makes for a great vacation
  3. Networking, walking paths, connection
  4. Ready yourself for the diabetes future🚀
  5. Have fun, win prizes, play DiaBingo 😄

What's Included?

  • 🍽️ Healthy breakfasts, lunch, refreshments and coffee ☕
  • 📘 100-page printed syllabus
  • 🎤 2 days of engaging, expert-led education with case studies.
  • 🎓 12 FREE online courses ($375 value)
  • Free MedPocketCard & Coach Bev’s Book 📗 Healing through Connection.

Add on a 3rd Day!
Enroll in ENGAGING THE DISENGAGED
Strategies for Promoting Behavior Change in Diabetes
October 24, 2026

Transform how you engage patients with diabetes — master behavior change, reduce distress, and overcome medication hesitancy.

Why do so many patients know what they should do — but still struggle to do it?

The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.

In this transformative full-day course, world-renowned experts William H. Polonsky, PhD, CDCES, and Susan Guzman, PhD, from the Behavioral Diabetes Institute reveal the hidden psychosocial forces that drive — or derail — diabetes self-management.

You’ll walk away with a completely new toolkit for breaking through patient resistance, dissolving medication hesitancy, and creating clinical encounters that actually inspire change!

Rationale of the Week | Which one of these belong to the ADCES 7?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on ADCES 7 Self-Care Behaviors. 71% 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 by clicking here.

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

When providing Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME), which of the following list includes the ADCES 7 Self-Care Behaviors?

  • A. Healthy Eating, Being Active, Insulin Adjustment
  • B. Monitoring, Problem Solving, Healthy Coping.
  • C. Reducing Risks, Being Active, Social Support.
  • D. Problem Solving, Reducing Risk, Positive Self-Attitude.

Getting to the Best Answer

If you are thinking about taking the certification exam, this practice test question will set you up for success. Test writers anticipate possible answers based on the details in the question. They will wave those “juicy answers” right under your nose. Your job is to weed through the particulars, pluck out the most important elements and choose the BEST answer.

Answer A is incorrect. 8.94% chose this answer, “Healthy Eating, Being Active, Insulin Adjustment.” This answer is so close. The 7 ADCES Self-Care Behaviors include Healthy Coping, Healthy Eating, Being Active, Taking Medication, Monitoring, Reducing Risk, Problem Solving. Insulin Adjustment is just one component of Taking Medication.

Answer B is correct. 71.95% of you chose this answer, “Monitoring, Problem Solving, Healthy Coping.” Great JOB!  This answer is the best answer. The 7 ADCES Self-Care Behaviors include Healthy Coping, Healthy Eating, Being Active, Taking Medication, Monitoring, Reducing Risk, Problem Solving. This great info to be familiar with for any upcoming certification exam in your future!

Answer C is incorrect. About 10.57% of respondents chose this: “Reducing Risks, Being Active, Social Support.” This answer is so close. The 7 ADCES Self-Care Behaviors include Healthy Coping, Healthy Eating, Being Active, Taking Medication, Monitoring, Reducing Risk, Problem Solving. Social Support falls under the category of Healthy Coping and is not it’s own category. 

Finally, Answer D is incorrect. 8.54% chose this answer, “Problem Solving, Reducing Risk, Positive Self-Attitude.” Another juicy answer. The 7 ADCES Self-Care Behaviors include Healthy Coping, Healthy Eating, Being Active, Taking Medication, Monitoring, Reducing Risk, Problem Solving. Positive Self-Attitude might fall under the category of Healthy Coping, but is not it’s own category. 

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!

Set Yourself Up With Certification Success

Get exam-ready with confidence.

Course credits through AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™, ACPE, ANCC, and CDR!

Full accreditation details are available on the registration page

Our CDCES Boot Camp Online Prep Bundle is a comprehensive, high-impact program built specifically for healthcare professionals preparing for the Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) exam who want to level up their clinical knowledge and skills.

This evidence-based study bundle is a comprehensive BC-ADM Boot Camp designed for advanced-level healthcare professionals preparing for the Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management (BC-ADM) exam and will also provide you with state-of-the-art information to level up your clinical practice.

What's Included?

CDCES Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses from the fundamentals to the ADA standards, to test strategies and exam mastery! Includes Levels 1, 2 and 3.
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited). IN
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build confidence
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

BC-ADM Boot Camp

  • 30+ expert-led courses covering advanced diabetes management, ADA standards, medication review, insulin calculations and tech topics! Includes advanced levels 2, 3, 4. 
  • 50+ CE credits (AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited).
  • 400+ practice questions to test your knowledge and build BC-ADM test confidence.
  • Multiple learning formats: video presentations, audio podcasts, and downloadable handouts
  • 1 full year of on-demand access to study at your own pace

Enroll Now for our
Virtual DiabetesEd Training Conference
Now Available On-Demand

Why Should I Attend?

Join national experts including Dr. Diana Isaacs (Cleveland Clinic), Beverly Thomassian (30+ years of experience), and Christine Craig for high-impact, virtual learning—no travel required.

✔ Learn from National Experts — Anywhere

Get the same expert-level instruction you’d receive in person, delivered live to your home or office.

✔ 1-year Access

  • Full session recordings with 1-year access if you can’t attend live

What's Included?

  • 19.5 CEs from the 3-day interactive conference + 17+ bonus CEs from 11 on-demand courses. (30+ total CEs are AMA PRA Category 1™, ACPE, ANCC, CDR accredited)
  • Less than $15 per credit!
  • Expert-led sessions: ADA Standards, medications, insulin therapy, behavior change, CGM, medical nutrition therapy
  • 1-year access to all recordings that you can watch on your schedule
  • Study material for CDCES and BC-ADM exam prep