For last week’s practice question, we quizzed test takers on abdominal lumps and insulin injections. Only 46% of respondents chose the best answer, which indicates that there was some confusion. 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:

JL is 67 years old, with a BMI of 23 and A1C of 7.6% and injects insulin 4 times a day to manage their type 1 diabetes. On visual inspection, you notice that there are many areas of lipohypertrophy on JL’s abdominal region.

Which of the following interventions would be the best recommendation?

Answer Choices:

1. Switch to 50/50 insulin twice daily.
2. Stop bolus insulin and switch to a GLP-1 RA.
3. Switch bolus injections to inhaled insulin.
4. Use a higher gauge needles to enhance absorption.

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Getting to the Best Answer

Answer 1 is incorrect. 18.54% chose this answer, “Switch to 50/50 insulin twice daily.” This is not the best answer since it doesn’t address the core issue of injection site overuse and fat accumulation. Switching to 50/50 insulin may even lead to worsening blood sugars since it is a premixed basal bolus insulin that would be difficult to fine tune for people with type 1 diabetes. (See photo of lipohypertrophy below)

Answer 2 is incorrect. 7.85% of you chose this answer, “Stop bolus insulin and switch to a GLP-1 RA.” This is not the best answer since GLP-1 RA’s are not FDA approved to treat people with type 1 diabetes*. If a person with type 1 diabetes stopped their bolus insulin, they would become very insulin deprived and likely experience severe blood glucose elevations and hyperglycemic crisis. Plus, this answer doesn’t address the core issue of injection site overuse and fat accumulation. *Footnote: some people with type 1 are prescribed a GLP-1 RA (off label) in ADDITION to basal bolus insulin to lower glucose levels and help with weight management. (See photo of lipohypertrophy below)

Answer 3 is correct. 45.93% of respondents chose this answer, “Switch bolus injections to inhaled insulin.” YES, GREAT JOB. Lipohypertrophy, a lump of fat accumulation due to frequent injections, has been shown to affect ?50% of people injecting insulin and results from lack of injection site rotation and needle. Injecting into these “lumps” reduces insulin absorption and action, raises postprandial glucose, and greatly increases insulin uptake variability. Despite this, inspection of injection sites is not routinely performed by health care professionals or people with diabetes, which reveals the “unexplained” nature of many blood glucose fluctuations. (Excerpted from this Article on Insulin Injection Technique- Clinical Diabetes, 2019).

To avoid lipohypertrophy, we can transition people to boluses of inhaled insulin to cover for food and hyperglycemia and still provide one basal injection a day, using sites free of fatty lumps. This reduction of the injection frequency allows time for tissue healing and reduces creation of new lipohypertrophy sites. Download our FREE Insulin PocketCards here.

If a person decides to stay on injections, encourage them to systematically space them at least 1 cm (about the width of an adult finger) from each other; this helps to avoid repeat tissue trauma. One approach involves dividing sites into quadrants (or halves when using the buttocks or thighs), using one quadrant per week and moving from quadrant to quadrant in a consistent direction (e.g., clockwise). Encourage people to rotate injections between sites, as well as within a site. Use needles once and toss, since excessive reuse of needles can traumatize the skin and underlying structures. (See photo of lipohypertrophy below)

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 27.67% chose this answer, “Use a higher gauge needles to enhance absorption.” This is not the best answer since it doesn’t address the core issue of injection site overuse and fat accumulation. Switching to a higher gauge needle just means the barrel of the needle is thinner and hurts less when passing through the skin. Improper injection site rotation and needle reuse are the most common factors associated with lipohypertrophy. (See photo of lipohypertrophy below)

Read more great info here, The Injection Technique Factor: What You Don’t Know or Teach Can Make a Difference – Article from Clinical Diabetes, 2019. You are also invited to join our Virtual Conference where we tackle this topic and many more factors that affect diabetes self-care.

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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed test takers on the right amount of insulin for an 83 year old. Only 50% of respondents chose the best answer, which indicates that there was some confusion. 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:

MS is an 83-year-old admitted to the hospital for a broken hip.  MS has a BMI of 22.4, A1C of 6.9% on metformin 500mg twice daily.  UACR is less than 30 and GFR is 48.  The MD writes to stop oral meds in prep for surgery and start on basal-bolus insulin therapy. 

Based on MS’s profile, what would be the most accurate formula to calculate their total daily insulin dose?

Answer Choices:

1. 0.3 units of insulin / kg/day
2. 0.5 units of insulin /kg/day
3. 0.5 – 1.0 units of insulin /kg /day
4. Start with 10 units of basal insulin

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Getting to the Best Answer

Answer 1 is correct. 50.11% chose this answer, 0.3 units of insulin / kg/day.” YES, GREAT JOB. This is the best answer for several reasons. We can tell from the case study that MS is a frail 83-year-old who is probably very insulin sensitive based on the following details: BMI of 22.4, A1C of 6.9% and GFR is 48.  Leaner individuals need less insulin and people with a low GFR have slower renal clearance of insulin putting them at higher risk of hypoglycemia. In addition MS is insulin naïve and their A1C is on target on only 1000mg of Metformin daily. For all these reasons, starting on a VERY conservative total daily insulin dose is the best and safest approach.

Answer 2 is incorrect. 17.78% of you chose this answer, “0.5 units of insulin /kg/day.” This is a juicy answer However MS is a frail 83-year-old who is probably very insulin sensitive based on the following details: BMI of 22.4, A1C of 6.9% and GFR is 48.  Leaner individuals need less insulin and people with a low GFR have slower renal clearance of insulin putting them at higher risk of hypoglycemia. In addition MS is insulin naïve and their A1C is on target on only 1000mg of Metformin daily. For all these reasons, starting MS on 0.5 units/kg total daily insulin might be too much and might put MS at risk of hypoglycemia due to over insulinization.

Answer 3 is incorrect. 14.33% of respondents chose this answer, “0.5 – 1.0 units of insulin /kg /day.” This is another juicy answer However MS is a frail 83-year-old who is probably very insulin sensitive based on the following details: BMI of 22.4, A1C of 6.9% and GFR is 48.  Leaner individuals need less insulin and people with a low GFR have slower renal clearance of insulin putting them at higher risk of hypoglycemia. In addition MS is insulin naïve and their A1C is on target on only 1000mg of Metformin daily. For all these reasons, starting MS on 0.5 – 1.0 units/kg total daily insulin might be too much and might put MS at risk of hypoglycemia due to over insulinization.

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 17.78 chose this answer, “Start with 10 units of basal insulin.” This answer is appealing, since we often start people on 10 units of basal insulin. However, in this case study, we don’t have MS’s body weight to calculate their total daily insulin needs. Since we don’t have their weight in kgs, we don’t know what the right starting basal dose. For this reason, this is not the best answer.

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Level 4 | Basal Bolus Therapy in Hospitals | 1.5 CEs

Recently updated and ready to watch!

Glucose control in the hospital matters! This course provides participants with a step-by-step approach to safely and effectively implement Basal Bolus Insulin Therapy in the inpatient setting. We discuss appropriate insulin dosing based on the patient’s clinical presentation and apply dosing strategies to a variety of case studies. Included are hard-to-manage situations that commonly occur in hospital settings and a discussion of solutions that will keep patients safe and get glucose levels to goal. In addition, sample basal/bolus and insulin drip guidelines plus lots of resource articles are included. 

Objectives:

1. Discussing appropriate insulin dosing based on the patient’s clinical presentation
2. Applying dosing strategies to a variety of case studies
3. Introduce hard-to-manage situations that commonly occur in hospital settings
4. A discussion of solutions that will keep patients safe and get glucose levels to goal
5. Sample basal/bolus and insulin drip guidelines plus lots of resource articles are included

Don’t worry if you can’t make it live. Your registration guarantees access to the recorded version in the Online University.

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information

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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed test takers on if you should toss food if it is past the expiration date. Only 35% of respondents chose the best answer, which indicates that there was some confusion. 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:

A person comes into the clinic for a diabetes education appointment. They are on a budget and ask you if they should throw away food if it is older than the date on the package.

What is the most accurate response?

Answer Choices:

1. Manufacturers stamp foods with a date to comply with federal safety standards.
2. Before throwing away the food, look at it and smell or taste it to see if it has gone bad.
3. The date on food packaging indicates when it is no longer safe to consume. 
4. Food packaging dates are federally regulated and help keep consumers safe..

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Getting to the Best Answer

Answer 1 is incorrect. 23.38% chose this answer, “Manufacturer’s stamp foods with a date to comply with federal safety standards.” This is a juicy answer, but it is not the best answer. Except for infant formula, dates are not an indicator of the product’s safety and are not required by Federal law.  Since the federal government doesn’t require the dates, the “sell by” or “enjoy by” dates are determined mostly by the manufacturers. Manufacturers put the date on the package to encourage consumers to eat the food product when it tastes best, not when the food will go “bad”. They want to protect their brand and encourage the consumer to purchase their product again.

Answer 2 is correct. 35.74% of you chose this answer, “Before throwing away the food, look at it and smell or taste it to see if it has gone bad.” Research shows that one in three bags of groceries purchased will end up in the trash due to dates stamped on food items. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), foods are still safe for consumption after these expiration dates pass, but make sure to look out for an off odor, flavor, or texture that mean the food has spoiled and should not be eaten.

The FDA says the dates on food aren’t serving a safety role. A food and law expert, Broad Leib says, “however, you do want to pay attention to dates on food in the prepared food section, including deli meat, raw fish, unpasteurized milk and cheese.” But for most foods, like a box of mushrooms or a bottle of ketchup, Broad Leib suggests we take a pause to look at the food. Smell and taste it to determine if it seems okay to eat. We can tell if something went bad.

Answer 3 is incorrect. 16.16% of respondents chose this answer, “The date on food packaging indicates when it is no longer safe to consume. ” This is a juicy answer, but it is not the best answer. Except for infant formula, dates are not an indicator of the product’s safety and are not required by Federal law.  Since the federal government doesn’t require the dates, the “sell by” or “enjoy by” dates are determined mostly by the manufacturers. Manufacturers put the date on the package to encourage consumers to eat the food product when it tastes best, not when the food will go “bad”. They want to protect their brand and encourage the consumer to purchase their product again.

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 24.71% chose this answer, “Food packaging dates are federally regulated and help keep consumers safe.” This is a juicy answer, but it is not the best answer. Except for infant formula, dates are not an indicator of the product’s safety and are not required by Federal law.  Since the federal government doesn’t require the dates, the “sell by” or “enjoy by” dates are determined mostly by the manufacturers. Manufacturers put the date on the package to encourage consumers to eat the food product when it tastes best, not when the food will go “bad”. They want to protect their brand and encourage the consumer to purchase their product again.

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Read more in our blog
Food Dates Can Lead to Unnecessary Waste

Have you inspected a food product that you bought last week and wondered if you should toss it because it expired yesterday? If you said yes, you are not alone.

About 40% of food waste happens in the kitchen, when consumers throw away foods that have passed the expiration date.

Are we throwing away perfectly good food based on the date stamped on the package?

Dates are confusing and they are often not associated with safety concerns. Learn why food and legal experts are asking consumers to reconsider their thinking.

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Want to learn more about Diabetes Care?  Join us for our

Virtual DiabetesEd Training Conference
30+ CEs

Airs October 12-14th, 2022

Join us LIVE for this Virtual Training Conference and enjoy a sense of community!

Whether you are new to diabetes or a seasoned expert, you’ll benefit from this virtual conference with the latest research plus critical content that you can immediately apply to your clinical practice.

Download Course Flyer | Download Schedule

If you are seeking a state-of-the-art review of current diabetes care, this course is for you. Our team has been fine-tuning this course for over fifteen years, and we know what you need. This program can also be a great addition to your CDCES or BC-ADM exam study plan.

Team of expert faculty includes:

• Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BC-ADM, BCACP, CDCES – Educator of the Year, 2020
• Coach Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM
• Ashley LaBrier, MS, RD, CDCES, Diabetes Program Coordinator

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Two Registration Options

Don’t worry if you can’t make it live. Your registration guarantees access to the recorded version in the Online University.

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information

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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed test takers on the best action for glucagon rescue medicine with beer. 70% of respondents chose the best answer. Great JOB. We want to 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:

RT is a 17-year-old with type 1 diabetes who uses an insulin pump and glucose meter to manage blood glucose levels. RT is out with friends, drinking beers and suddenly passes out. One of RT’s friends carries a glucagon rescue medication and administers it to RT in a panic.

Which of the following statements is most accurate?

Answer Choices:

1. RT will regain consciousness within 15 minutes, so make sure to roll RT on their side.
2. RT did not pass out from low blood sugar since they were consuming beer.
3. RT will likely have a blunted response to the glucagon rescue medication.
4. RT needs immediate administration of oral glucose to promote glycogenolysis.

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Getting to the Best Answer

Answer 1 is incorrect. 15% chose this answer, “RT will regain consciousness within 15 minutes, so make sure to roll RT on their side.” Since alcohol consumption slows glycogen breakdown in the liver, higher levels of alcohol in the blood can delay and blunt the effectiveness of glucagon rescue medications. While we hope the RT regains consciousness quickly, there is a real possibility that it will take longer than 15 minutes. However, the second half of the answer offers sound advice. Since people often get nauseated and may vomit after receiving glucagon, it is a good idea to roll RT on their side. See our Blog for more info – Warning Alcohol can Blunt Impact of Glucagon

Answer 2 is incorrect. 5% of you chose this answer, “RT did not pass out from low blood sugar since they were consuming beer.” Although beer may contain some carbohydrate, the body considers alcohol a toxin and as soon as it reaches the bloodstream, the liver prioritizes metabolizing the alcohol and breaking it down. During this clean-up process, the liver is distracted from hormone signals that direct the liver to break down glycogen for energy and liberate glucose into the bloodstream. This clean-up can last for up to 8 hours, making delayed hypoglycemia a real possibility. See our Blog for more info – Warning Alcohol can Blunt Impact of Glucagon

Answer 3 is correct. 70% of respondents chose this answer, “RT will likely have a blunted response to the glucagon rescue medication.” YES, this is the best answer. Alcohol consumption slows glycogen breakdown in the liver, higher levels of alcohol in the blood can delay and blunt the effectiveness of glucagon rescue medications. When a person with type 1 diabetes drink alcohol, they at increased risk of hypoglycemia because the liver is less capable of breaking down stored glycogen.

Having a conversation with people with type 1 about the suppressive nature of alcohol on glycogen release for many hours after consuming alcohol is very important.

As a general rule of thumb, encouraging people with type 1 to eat 15gms of carbs with each drink and have a glass of water in between, may help make sure they have enough circulating carbs and slow the pace of alcohol consumption to help the liver with processing. They may also consider decreasing their insulin dose in association with alcohol intake to prevent this serious side effect. See our Blog for more info- Warning Alcohol can Blunt Impact of Glucagon

Finally, Answer 4 is correct. 9% chose this answer, “RT needs immediate administration of oral glucose to promote glycogenolysis.” This is a juicy answer. AFTER RT regains consciousness, they will certainly need to consume an oral form of energy to replete their glycogen stores and stabilize glucose levels. Of course, it isn’t safe to administer oral glucose when a person loses consciousness. Instead, emergency responders would administer glucagon or dextrose through an IV. See our Blog for more info- Warning Alcohol can Blunt Impact of Glucagon

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Read more in our blog
Does Alcohol Intake Blunt Impact of Glucagon?

LS tells you that they frequently attend company mixers where they feel compelled to have at “least a few drinks”, to fit in and network.

The tricky part is that LS lives with type 1 diabetes. Since they don’t have a working pancreas, their circulating levels of insulin and glucagon are often mismatched to their body’s needs.

If LS has several drinks, then loses consciousness from hypoglycemia, will emergency treatment be effective?

There is emerging evidence that glucagon rescue medications may have a blunted response when ingesting alcohol.

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Want to learn more about this question?
Enroll in our upcoming webinar series updates

Level 4 | Advanced Level & Specialty Topic Courses | 13+ CEs

Join us live beginning August 9th through November 9th at 11:30 am PST

This bundle is specifically designed for healthcare professionals who want to learn more about Specialty Topics for their clinical practice or for those who are studying for the Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management (BC-ADM) certification exam.

2022 Live Webinar Updates

Previously recorded & available for on-demand viewing

• The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Health | 1.0 CE
• 3 Steps to Save Feet; Assess, Screen, and Report | 1.0 CEs
• Solving Glucose Mysteries for Type 1 | 1.5 CEs
• Solving Glucose Mysteries for Type 2 | 1.5 CEs

All courses air at 11:30 a.m. (PST)

• August 23, 2022 | Insulin Calculation Workshop – From Pumps & Beyond | 1.5 CEs
• August 25, 2022 | Basal Bolus Therapy in Hospital |1.5 CEs
• September 15, 2022 | Type 2 Diabetes Intensive | 2 CEs
• October 26, 2022 | Cancer & Diabetes | 1.25 CEs
• November 9, 2022 | Getting to the Gut (& Skin) | 1.0 CEs

Can’t join us live?
Don’t worry, we will send you a link to the recorded version.

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

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

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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed test takers on what to do when premeal glucose is too low. 49% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to 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: RL carb counts and takes 1 unit of insulin for every 10 gms of carbohydrate. RL also uses a correction ratio and takes 1 unit for every 40 points above their glucose target of 120.  RL’s asks you what to do if their premeal glucose is less than 70 before their lunch meal at work. RL often has blood sugar drops right before lunch and usually eats a sandwich, chips, berries and some sparkling water for lunch.

Given the situation, what is the best recommendation for JL to do if their pre-lunch glucose is less than 70 mg/g?

Answer Choices:

1. Immediately eat 15gms of berries and recheck glucose in 15 minutes.
2. Decrease usual insulin carb coverage for this meal by 1 or 2 units.
3. Encourage RL to eat lunch immediately and give insulin afterward.
4. Discuss which strategies would work best for RL in this situation.

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As shown above, the most common choice was option 4, the second most common answer was option 1, then option 2, and finally option 3.

Getting to the Best Answer

Answer 1 is incorrect. 21.42% chose this answer, “Immediately eat 15gms of berries and recheck glucose in 15 minutes.” This answer is a right answer, but it is not the BEST answer. Yes, we recommend treating low blood sugar with 15 gms of carbohydrate, but is this the preferred treatment strategy for RL? Would RL choose this option?

Answer 2 is incorrect. 17.11% of you chose this answer, “Decrease usual insulin carb coverage for this meal by 1 or 2 units.” This also could be a right answer, but it is not the BEST answer. When faced with a premeal low blood sugar, some people may choose to decrease their bolus insulin dose by 1-2 units, but is this the preferred treatment strategy for RL?

Answer 3 is incorrect. 12.72% of respondents chose this answer, “Encourage RL to eat lunch immediately and give insulin afterward.” This also could be a right answer, but it is not the BEST answer. When faced with a premeal low blood sugar, some people may choose to eat first then give their insulin afterward, based on glucose levels, but is this the preferred treatment strategy for RL?

Finally, Answer 4 is correct. 48.75% chose this answer, “Discuss which strategies would work best for RL in this situation.” YES, this is the BEST answer. RL may choose any of the above mentioned strategies, or RL may have some other ideas on how to manage this situation. Our goal is to keep it person centered and recognize the expertise of the individual who lives with diabetes everyday.

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Level 4 | Advanced Level & Specialty Topic Courses | 13+ CEs

Join us live beginning August 9th through November 9th at 11:30 am PST

This bundle is specifically designed for healthcare professionals who want to learn more about Specialty Topics for their clinical practice or for those who are studying for the Board Certified in Advanced Diabetes Management (BC-ADM) certification exam.

2022 Live Webinar Updates

Previously recorded & available for on-demand viewing

• The Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences on Health | 1.0 CE
• 3 Steps to Save Feet; Assess, Screen, and Report | 1.0 CEs
•  Solving Glucose Mysteries for Type 1 | 1.5 CEs

All courses air at 11:30 a.m. (PST)

• August 11, 2022 | Solving Glucose Mysteries for Type 2 | 1.5 CEs
• August 23, 2022 | Insulin Calculation Workshop – From Pumps & Beyond | 1.5 CEs
• August 25, 2022 | Basal Bolus Therapy in Hospital |1.5 CEs
• September 15, 2022 | Type 2 Diabetes Intensive | 2 CEs
• October 26, 2022 | Cancer & Diabetes | 1.25 CEs
• November 9, 2022 | Getting to the Gut (& Skin) | 1.0 CEs

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Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post one daily Blog Byte from Monday to Friday. And of course, Tuesday is our Question of the Week. It’s Informative and FREE!  Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.

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For last week’s practice question, we quizzed test takers on the best treatment for abrasions 65% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to 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: JR is 38 years old and takes insulin twice a day. They mention they went to the bathroom at night, lost their balance, and scraped their shin. They put a band-aid on it, but want you to take a look.

What is the best approach to treat the abrasion?

Answer Choices:

1. Clean carefully with sanitizing gel, apply topical antibiotic and observe for signs of infection.
2. Discuss creating a safe path to the bathroom at night and assess the abrasion for severity.
3. Replace the band-aid with gauze and suggest they make an appointment with podiatry.
4. Take a photo of the abrasion, wash with soap and water, and apply iodine around the perimeter.

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As shown above, the most common choice was option 2, the second most common answer was option 1, then option 4, and finally option 3.

Getting to the Best Answer

Answer 1 is incorrect. 16.23% chose this answer, “Clean carefully with sanitizing gel, apply topical antibiotic and observe for signs of infection.” This is a juicy answer, but not the best answer for this situation for two main reasons. Applying topical antibiotic is a great idea, but generally, abrasions are cleansed with soap and water instead of sanitizing gel. In addition, this answer did not address the core issue, of improving safety when going to the bathroom at night.

Answer 2 is correct. 64.91% of you chose this answer, “Discuss creating a safe path to the bathroom at night and assess the abrasion for severity.” YES, GREAT JOB, this is the best answer. Many lower extremity falls, scrapes and injuries happen on the way to the bathroom when it is dark. It is important to make sure people have a safe path, including night lights and removal of any potential fall risks, especially for older people with balance issues.

Answer 3 is incorrect. 7.71% of respondents chose this answer, “Replace the band-aid with gauze and suggest they make an appointment with podiatry.” It is important to evaluate and treat the abrasion, but it does not warrant an automatic referral to the podiatrist, especially since it is on the shin. Also, this question does not provide enough details about the severity of the wound to determine if further treatment is required.

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 11.16% chose this answer, “Take a photo of the abrasion, wash with soap and water, and apply iodine around the perimeter.” Of course it is a great idea to evaluate an abrasion, but iodine can cause skin irritation and not usually recommended as an antiseptic. In addition, this answer did not address the core issue, of improving safety when going to the bathroom at night.

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Want to learn more about this question?
Enroll in our Foot Screening Bundle!
Sale ends today to save $15!

This bundle includes our 3 Steps to Save Feet; Assess, Screen, and Report Webinar + 20-pack of Monofilament + ADA Foot Screening Chart

People with diabetes are at increased risk of foot complications. Basic foot care education and intervention can reduce the risk of amputation by over 50 percent.

This bundle comes with our:

• 3 Steps to Save Feet; Assess, Screen & Report for 1.0 CE
• Monofilament (5.07) 20-Pack
• ADA Foot Chart

We have included instructions on assessing and inspecting feet, risk assessment, and action steps. We enhanced the teaching tools and forms from the Lower Extremity Prevention Program (LEAP) and are excited to share them with our community of diabetes advocates.

FREE Resources for Health Care Professionals and People with Diabetes

3 Steps to Save Feet – Assess, Screen, Report Handout.  This handout walks health care professionals through the steps involved in a 10-minute foot assessment and monofilament screening. Also includes a Screening Form to document and report findings.

Foot Care Teaching Sheet – Steps to Healthy Feet. This handout covers the important elements of foot care for people living with diabetes with simple and straightforward language.

Foot Care Teaching Sheet in Spanish– Pasos Para Tener Pies Sanos. This handout covers the important elements of foot care for people living with diabetes with simple and straightforward language.

FREE Handouts and Resources

Read More: FREE Handouts and Resources

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Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post one daily Blog Byte from Monday to Friday. And of course, Tuesday is our Question of the Week. It’s Informative and FREE!  Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed test takers on why diabetes foot care is important. 93% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to 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: A person with diabetes has small corn on their pinky toe and it bothers them when walking.

What is the best first action?

Answer Choices:

1.  Instruct them on to how to safely use a liquid corn remover.
2. Encourage them to buy a shoe size larger than their usual shoe size.
3. Carefully trim the corn with a sterile instrument and cover with gauze padding.
4. Refer the person to a foot specialist.

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As shown above, the most common choice was option 4, the second most common answer was option 2, then a tie for options 1 and 3.

Getting to the Best Answer

Answer 1 is incorrect. 2.10% chose this answer, “Instruct them on to how to safely use a liquid corn remover.” The problem with corn and callus liquid or patch treatments, is that they contain salicylic acid, which can remove the callus/corn, but also damage the healthy tissue underneath. This disruption in skin integrity can lead to ulcerations and increase the risk of skin infections, especially if the person with diabetes is experiencing blood glucose elevations. We have created foot care education sheets in English and Spanish that you are invited to print and share. Let’s prevent the agony of “DeFeet”. Foot Care Teaching Sheet – Steps to Healthy Feet. Foot Care Teaching Sheet in Spanish– Pasos Para Tener Pies Sanos.

Answer 2 is incorrect. 2.69% of you chose this answer, “Encourage them to buy a shoe size larger than their usual shoe size.” While it is important to make sure there is plenty of room to wiggle toes and avoid rubbing from tight fitting shoes, it is also important to avoid ill fitting shoes. Wearing too large of shoes can lead to slippage and increased friction resulting in blisters and ulcers. These teaching sheets demonstrate an easy strategy to make sure that people are wearing the best size shoes for their foot shape. Foot Care Teaching Sheet – Steps to Healthy Feet. Foot Care Teaching Sheet in Spanish– Pasos Para Tener Pies Sanos.

Answer 3 is incorrect. 2.10% of respondents chose this answer, “Carefully trim the corn with a sterile instrument and cover with gauze padding.” People diabetes are strongly discouraged from performing any “bathroom surgery” to self-treat foot problems. Approved foot care tools for foot care include, nail clippers, nail file, soap and water, washcloth, gentle scrub brush, lotions, socks and shoes. We have created foot care education sheets in English and Spanish that you are invited to print and share. Let’s prevent the agony of “DeFeet”. Foot Care Teaching Sheet – Steps to Healthy Feet. Foot Care Teaching Sheet in Spanish– Pasos Para Tener Pies Sanos.

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 93.11% chose this answer, “Refer the person to a foot specialist.” GREAT JOB. Most people chose this answer for good reason, the action of referring a person with foot problems to a Podiatrist significantly reduces the risk of ulceration, infection and amputation. By identifying and referring people with high risk feet to specialists, we can reverse the trend of increasing amputations and improve quality of life. We are happy to share these free lower extremity education handouts with you. Please feel free to print and share! Foot Care Teaching Sheet – Steps to Healthy Feet. Foot Care Teaching Sheet in Spanish– Pasos Para Tener Pies Sanos.

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Want to learn more about this question?
Enroll in our Foot Screening Bundle, now on Sale!

This bundle includes our 3 Steps to Save Feet; Assess, Screen, and Report Webinar + 20-pack of Monofilament + ADA Foot Screening Chart

People with diabetes are at increased risk of foot complications. Basic foot care education and intervention can reduce the risk of amputation by over 50 percent.

This bundle comes with our:

• 3 Steps to Save Feet; Assess, Screen & Report for 1.0 CE
• Monofilament (5.07) 20-Pack
• ADA Foot Chart

We have included instructions on assessing and inspecting feet, risk assessment, and action steps. We enhanced the teaching tools and forms from the Lower Extremity Prevention Program (LEAP) and are excited to share them with our community of diabetes advocates.

FREE Resources for Health Care Professionals and People with Diabetes

3 Steps to Save Feet – Assess, Screen, Report Handout.  This handout walks health care professionals through the steps involved in a 10-minute foot assessment and monofilament screening. Also includes a Screening Form to document and report findings.

Foot Care Teaching Sheet – Steps to Healthy Feet. This handout covers the important elements of foot care for people living with diabetes with simple and straightforward language.

Foot Care Teaching Sheet in Spanish– Pasos Para Tener Pies Sanos. This handout covers the important elements of foot care for people living with diabetes with simple and straightforward language.

FREE Handouts and Resources

Read More: FREE Handouts and Resources

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The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed test takers on the best use of monofilament to check feet. 60% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to 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: ADA Standards of Care recommend using a 5.07 monofilament to evaluate for loss of protective sensation in lower extremities in people with diabetes.  Which of the following statements is most accurate regarding using a monofilament to assess lower extremities?

Answer Choices:

1. When using the monofilament, test above or below thickened or callused skin.
2. Be careful not to bend the monofilament when testing for sensation.
3. Alternate between hot and cold testing with monofilament testing to enhance accuracy.
4. Rotate monofilament testing between the medial malleolus and distal phalanges for best results.

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As shown above, the most common choice was option 1, the second most common answer was option 4, then option 2, and finally 3.

Getting to the Best Answer

Answer 1 is correct. 60.00% chose this answer, “When using the monofilament, test above or below thickened or callused skin.” YES, GREAT JOB. Many people with diabetes have calluses and thickened skin that will block the sensation of 10gms of linear pressure delivered by the monofilament. For this reason, avoid areas with thickened insensate skin and test for sensation above or below the callused location.

Answer 2 is incorrect. 11.27% of you chose this answer, “Be careful not to bend the monofilament when testing for sensation.” Actually, to deliver 10gms of linear pressure using a monofilament, the examiner needs to slightly bend the 5.07 filament into a “C” position. This will deliver the correct amount of pressure to evaluate if the person is experiencing loss of sensation.

Answer 3 is incorrect. 4.13% of respondents chose this answer, “Alternate between hot and cold testing with monofilament testing to enhance accuracy.” Hot and cold testing is a strategy to determine if the person has decreased temperature sensation. However alternating between these two assessment techniques won’t enhance the testing accuracy of the monofilament.

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 24.60% chose this answer, “Rotate monofilament testing between the medial malleolus and distal phalanges for best results.” This is a juicy answer with some cool foot terms. The medial malleolus is actually the bump that protrudes on the inner ankle and the distal phalanges are the tips of the toes. The inner ankle is not one of the points of assessment using a monofilament. The large toe, the foot pad and heel are locations included in a foot assessment using a 5.07 monofilament.

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Want to learn more about this question?
Join us for our new FREE Webinar
3 Steps to Save Feet; Assess, Screen, and Report

Airs live July 19th at 11:30 am PST (45 to 60 minutes)

All health care professionals are invited to join us to learn strategies to protect lower extremities during this FREE Webinar.

Coach Beverly will walk participants through the 3 Step Process to Save Feet; Assess, Screen and Report.   She will provide simple and clear instructions on how to assess and inspect feet, along with risk assessment and action steps. We will share free teaching tools, strategies, and documentation forms adapted from the Lower Extremity Prevention Program (LEAP) that you can immediately implement in your practice setting.

CEs: 1.0 CEs for $19 or No CEs for FREE

Topics include:

• Effective foot assessment made easy
• How to use a monofilament to assess sensation
• Using screening form to report findings

Can’t join us live?
Don’t worry, we will send you a link to the recorded version.

FREE Handouts and Resources

Read More: FREE Handouts and Resources

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

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

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NEW! Order Monofilament (5.07) for Diabetes Foot Screening 20-Pack

Want to learn more about Diabetes Care?  Join us for our

Virtual DiabetesEd Specialist Conference
30+ CEs

Airs October 12-14th, 2022

Join us LIVE for this Virtual Course and enjoy a sense of community!

Whether you are new to diabetes or a seasoned expert, you’ll benefit from this virtual conference with the latest research plus critical content that you can immediately apply to your clinical practice.

Download Course Flyer | Download Schedule

If you are seeking a state-of-the-art review of current diabetes care, this course is for you. Our team has been fine-tuning this course for over fifteen years, and we know what you need. This program can also be a great addition to your CDCES or BC-ADM exam study plan.

Team of expert faculty includes:

• Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BC-ADM, BCACP, CDCES – Educator of the Year, 2020
• Coach Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM
• Ashley LaBrier, MS, RD, CDCES, Diabetes Program Coordinator

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Two Registration Options

Don’t worry if you can’t make it live. Your registration guarantees access to the recorded version in the Online University.

All hours earned count toward your CDCES Accreditation Information

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Sign up for Diabetes Blog Bytes – we post one daily Blog Byte from Monday to Friday. And of course, Tuesday is our Question of the Week. It’s Informative and FREE!  Sign up below!

The use of DES products does not guarantee the successful passage of the CDCES exam. CBDCE does not endorse any preparatory or review materials for the CDCES exam, except for those published by CBDCE.