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Rationale of the Week | The Power of Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT)

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on SJ having questions about their insulin pen, and what would be the best response. % of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!

Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

SJ is 52 years old with a 10-year history of type 2 diabetes. They recently started on insulin degludec U-100 Flex Touch pen 15 units per day. At a follow-up visit, SJ brings their insulin pen and mentions they have been keeping it in their work bag since starting therapy. They are unsure how long they can continue to use this same pen.

What is the best advice for SJ for insulin storage in this situation?

  1. “It is recommended that insulin is always stored and kept refrigerated. Can you make sure you pack your insulin with your lunch cooler pack?”
  2. “Consider storing insulin in your freezer to allow it to be kept cold and protected when refrigeration is less reliable.”
  3. “If bringing your insulin with you every day helps you remember to take it, it should be okay to leave the pen you’re using in your workbag when at the office or at home.”
  4. “Once open, insulin pens can be stored and used at room temperature for up to 28 days, you should be okay with bringing it with you in your work bag.”

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: % chose this answer, “It is recommended that insulin is always stored and kept refrigerated. Can you make
sure you pack your insulin with your lunch cooler pack?” While refrigeration is ideal for insulin storage, insulin does not always need to be refrigerated. Once in use, most insulins, including degludec, are stable at room temperature (below 86F or 30 C). Advising refrigeration may create unnecessary barriers and does not reflect degludec’s stability profile.

Answer B is incorrect: % chose this answer, “Consider storing insulin in your freezer to allow it to be kept cold and protected when
refrigeration is less reliable.” Freezing damages insulin molecules, making the insulin ineffective and unsafe to use. This option contradicts manufacturer and clinical safety guidance.

Answer C is correct: % chose this answer, “If bringing your insulin with you every day helps you remember to take it, it should be
okay to leave the pen you’re using in your workbag when at the office or at home.” Insulin degludec is stable at room temperature below 86°F (30°C) for up to 56 days (8 weeks) once opened. If SJ’s work bag is not exposed to excessive heat or freezing, keeping the pen there is acceptable and may in fact support consistent dosing. We can also calculate SJ’s monthly insulin pen usage (15 units per day + 2 unit prime per injection = 510 units per month or 2 pens per month), knowing he will easily use more insulin than open insulin pen stability time window.

Answer D is incorrect: % chose this answer, “Once open, insulin pens can be stored and used at room temperature for up to 28 days, you should be okay with bringing it with you in your work bag.” While it is correct that insulin does not always require refrigeration once in use, the specific duration varies by insulin type; degludec lasts longer than 28 days.

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!

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Level 1 Diabetes Fundamentals

6 Session Series Starts On January 7th, 2026

Rationale of the Week | Keeping You in the Loop: twiist Insulin Pump

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on RT forgetting their insulin, and what would be the best response. % of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!

Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

Grace is a 38-year-old female who has lived with type 1 diabetes for 20 years. She is a nurse and works variable shifts. She voices concern today about her hemoglobin A1c being elevated at 8.4% over the past 6 months. She is doing everything she can to manage her diet, daily exercise routine, and reports rarely missing insulin doses. She is currently using a Dexcom G7 CGM.

She has never pursued insulin pump therapy because she was fearful that she would no longer be in control of her diabetes if she used a pump. She is now interested in an automated insulin delivery system and asks you which pump is “best” for controlling blood sugar.

What is the best way to answer this question?

  1. Discuss the insulin pump options that connect with the Dexcom G7 CGM. This will help simplify her transition to pump therapy by minimizing the learning curve when starting an AID system.
  2. Acknowledge Grace’s interest in insulin pump technology and recommend that she wait until more advanced insulin pump algorithms are available that are easier to use.
  3. Recommend that Grace use a tubeless pump as it will suit her better due to her work as a nurse and active lifestyle. This will help to avoid tubing issues or the insertion site becoming dislodged.
  4. Review with Grace the details of all the available insulin pumps, algorithms, and compatible CGMs so she can make a personalized decision based on her preferences and lifestyle.

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: % chose this answer, “Discuss the insulin pump options that connect with the Dexcom G7 CGM. This will help simplify her transition to pump therapy by minimizing the learning curve when starting an AID system.” Although some insulin pumps are compatible with the Dexcom CGM, switching to a different CGM supplier should not restrict clients from selecting the insulin pump that best suits their needs.

Answer B is incorrect: % chose this answer, “Acknowledge Grace’s interest in insulin pump technology and recommend that she wait until more advanced insulin pump algorithms are available that are easier to use.” Automated insulin delivery systems offer advanced automation. Waiting for future technology will not help Grace improve glycemic control now.

Answer C is incorrect: % chose this answer, “Recommend that Grace use a tubeless pump as it will suit her better due to her work as a nurse and active lifestyle. This will help to avoid tubing issues or the insertion site becoming dislodged.” The type of pump, with or without tubing, is a personal decision and is not based solely on occupation.

Answer D is correct: % chose this answer, “Review with Grace the details of all the available insulin pumps, algorithms, and compatible CGMs so she can make a personalized decision based on her preferences and lifestyle.” Choosing the right insulin pump is a highly personalized decision. Each insulin pump has different variables and CGM connectivity that must be considered. Grace will need to be educated on the available options so she can determine which insulin pump will work best for her.

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!

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

Use the code Cyber30 from Nov. 30th to Dec. 2nd for 30% off your entire order of online university courses and extensions!

Rationale of the Week | How does Mifepristone Work?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on How does Mifepristone work to treat hypercortisolism? 48.73% 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 54-year-old with type 2 diabetes and hypertension is diagnosed with hypercortisolism. Despite lifestyle interventions and maximum doses of metformin, GLP-1 RA, and an SGLT2 inhibitor, her A1C remains 9.2%. They are started on mifepristone.

Which of the following best explains how mifepristone improves glycemic control in this setting?

  1. It decreases cortisol synthesis in the adrenal cortex, lowering circulating cortisol levels.
  2. It reduces ACTH release from the pituitary, leading to decreased adrenal stimulation.
  3. It blocks glucocorticoid receptors, preventing cortisol from exerting metabolic effects.
  4. It directly enhances insulin secretion and sensitivity, independent of cortisol pathways.

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 1 is incorrect. 25.14% chose this answer, “It decreases cortisol synthesis in the adrenal cortex, lowering circulating cortisol levels.” As tempting as this answer is, mifepristone does not inhibit cortisol synthesis.

Answer 2 is incorrect. 15.21% of you chose this answer, “It reduces ACTH release from the pituitary, leading to decreased adrenal stimulation.This medication does not directly reduce ACTH release from the pituatary.

Answer 3 is correct. About 48.73% of respondents chose this, “It blocks glucocorticoid receptors, preventing cortisol from exerting metabolic effects.” Mifepristone is a glucocorticoid receptor antagonist. By competitively binding to glucocorticoid receptors, it prevents cortisol from exerting downstream effects, including increased hepatic gluconeogenesis, peripheral insulin resistance, and lipolysis. This mechanism is particularly useful in people with hypercortisolism and concurrent type 2 diabetes, as it improves insulin sensitivity and lowers blood glucose without lowering circulating cortisol levels.

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 10.99% chose this answer, “It directly enhances insulin secretion and sensitivity, independent of cortisol pathways.” This medication does not act directly on pancreatic β-cells or insulin receptors.

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!

Invite a colleague to our DiabetesEd Seminar in San Diego and get $75 off each registration.

Use code FriendDiscountSD during check out to save. 

Join us live in San Diego October 22nd – 23rd, 2025 for our upcoming

DiabetesEd Training Seminar

30+ CEs with Expanded Accreditation!

Join our expert team for engaging, interactive sessions that bring the ADA Standards of Care to life—covering medications, behavior change, technology, and more. Ideal for CDCES or BC-ADM exam prep, this course also includes a 4-hour Virtual Medical Nutrition Therapy Toolkit and bonus content that also meets CDCES renewal requirements.

Program Objectives:

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

  • Describe the current ADA Standards for diagnosis, goals, and person-centered diabetes management across the lifespan. 
  • Demonstrate insulin pattern management and dosing strategies in clinical scenarios.
  • Implement timely screening and risk reduction strategies for microvascular and cardiovascular complications.  
  • Incorporate behavior change techniques and medical nutrition therapy to support people with diabetes self-management and lifestyle adjustment.  

Expert Faculty:

Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES

Smiling woman in white blazer and lavender blouse

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

Faculty Bios & Disclosures

Our expert team transforms complex diabetes science into clear, practical insights—keeping it real, engaging, and fun!

Program Faculty Disclosures:

Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) requires every individual in a position to control educational content to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible companies that have occurred within the past 24 months. Ineligible companies are organizations whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients.

All relevant financial relationships for anyone with the ability to control the content of this educational activity are listed below and have been mitigated according to Partners policies. Others involved in the planning of this activity have no relevant financial relationships.

Faculy Bios & Disclosures:

Coach Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM – CEO of DiabetesEd Services

Disclosures: 

Beverly Thomassian has no financial disclosures

Bio:

Author, Nurse, Educator, Clinician, and Innovator, Beverly has specialized in diabetes management for over twenty years. As president and founder of Diabetes Education Services, Beverly is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence based diabetes education and improving the lives of those with diabetes.

PicsArt_04 03 11Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES 

Disclosures:

Dr. Diana Isaacs has the following relevant financial relationships:

  • Consultant, advisor, and speaker for Abbot Labratories, Dexcom, Medtronic, Insulet, Lilly, Cequr, Sanofi, and Undermyfork
  • Board member at Association for Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

Bio:

Diana Isaacs was awarded 2020 ADCES Diabetes Educator of the Year for her educational platform promoting the use of CGM for people with diabetes and other innovations.  She serves in leadership roles for several pharmacies and diabetes organizations. She has numerous diabetes publications and research projects with a focus on medications, CGM and diabetes technology.

For the past three year, Dr. Isaacs has served as a contributing author for the 2023 ADA Standards of Care.

As the Program Coordinator and clinical pharmacist specialist in the Cleveland Clinic Diabetes Center, Dr. Isaacs brings a wealth of clinical knowledge combined with extensive research and speaking experience to this program. 

Activity Start and End Date: 10/22/25 – 10/23/2025

Estimated time to complete the activity: 15 hours and 30 minutes

_____________________________________

Jointly provided by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education and Diabetes Education Services



Joint Accreditation Statement:

 In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) and Diabetes Education Services. Partners is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Physician Continuing Education:

Partners designates this enduring material for a maximum of 15.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Nursing Continuing Professional Development:

The maximum number of hours awarded for this Nursing Continuing Professional Development activity is 15.50 contact hours.

Pharmacy Continuing Education:

Partners designates this continuing education activity for 15.50 contact hour(s) (1.550 CEUs) of the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
(Universal Activity Number – JA4008073-9999-25-206-L01-P)
Type of Activity: Application

For Pharmacists: Upon successfully completing the activity evaluation form, transcript information will be sent to the NABP CPE Monitor Service within 4 weeks.

Dietitian Continuing Education:

This program offers 15.50 CPEUs for dietitians.

Interprofessional Continuing Education:

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 15.50 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.

For additional information about the accreditation of this activity, please visit https://partnersed.com.

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

Rationale of the Week | Time Restricted Eating – Best Approach

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Time Restricted Eating- Best Approach. 86% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!

Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

MJ is a 56-year-old with type 2 diabetes (A1C 7.3%), HTN, and dyslipidemia. Current medications include metformin 1,000 mg twice daily, lisinopril, and atorvastatin. Activity includes walking 20–30 minutes most evenings. At their most recent visit, MJ is inquiring about using at 16:8 time-restricted eating plan and plans eating from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and will include coffee/unsweetened beverages outside that window. MJ checks their blood glucose once daily and there is no reported history of severe hypoglycemia.

What response would you provide MJ regarding the safety and effectiveness of an intermittent fasting, time-restrictive eating plan?

  1. Individuals with type 2 diabetes should include regular meals throughout the day to support stabilize blood sugars and prevent hypoglycemia.
  2. Review with MJ his motivations for the time-restricted eating plan and assess plan for dietary intake within the eating window.
  3. Encourage a time-restricted eating plan, evidence indicates it is more effective than calorie reduction alone for weight loss and A1c reduction.
  4. Recommend starting Incretin therapy, such as Ozempic or Mounjaro, to ensure effectiveness of time-restricted eating plan.

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 1 is incorrect. 9% chose this answer, “Individuals with type 2 diabetes should include regular meals throughout the day to support stabilize blood sugars and prevent hypoglycemia.” Random control trials have indicated that time-restricted eating is a safe and practical dietary approach for individuals with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. While assessment and prevention of hypoglycemia is a priority, MJ’s current medication regimen is of low risk. Even with higher risk medications, such as insulin or sulfonylureas modifications of medication, timing or dose can be made to support safety.

Answer 2 is correct. 86% of you chose this answer, “Review with MJ his motivations for the time-restricted eating plan and assess plan for dietary intake within the eating window.” Great Job! Time-restricted eating can be a safe and effective strategy for MJ. Reviewing motivation and current eating patterns may improve the ability to apply balanced meals within the eating window.

Answer 3 is incorrect. About 3% of respondents chose this, “Encourage a time-restricted eating plan, evidence indicates it is more effective than calorie reduction alone for weight loss and A1c reduction.” While time restricted eating may be a practical strategy, it has not been shown to be superior to continuous energy restricted dietary intake for weight loss and A1c outcomes.

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. About 2% chose this answer, “Recommend starting Incretin therapy, such as Ozempic or Mounjaro, to ensure effectiveness of time-restricted eating plan.” While we may consider addition of an incretin therapy to support A1c, weight and cardiovascular risk reduction, time-restricted eating does not require the addition of these medications to be effective.

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!

Live in San Diego
DiabetesEd Training Seminar

Join us live October 22nd – 23rd, 2025!

30+ CEs with Expanded Accreditation!

More than a course, an experience.

Join our expert team for engaging, interactive sessions that bring the ADA Standards of Care to life—covering medications, behavior change, technology, and more. Ideal for CDCES or BC-ADM exam prep, this course also includes a 4-hour Virtual Medical Nutrition Therapy Toolkit and bonus content that also meets CDCES renewal requirements.

Program Objectives:

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

  • Describe the current ADA Standards for diagnosis, goals, and person-centered diabetes management across the lifespan. 
  • Demonstrate insulin pattern management and dosing strategies in clinical scenarios.
  • Implement timely screening and risk reduction strategies for microvascular and cardiovascular complications.  
  • Incorporate behavior change techniques and medical nutrition therapy to support people with diabetes self-management and lifestyle adjustment.  

Expert Faculty:

Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES

Smiling woman in white blazer and lavender blouse

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

Faculty Bios & Disclosures

Our expert team transforms complex diabetes science into clear, practical insights—keeping it real, engaging, and fun!

Program Faculty Disclosures:

Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) requires every individual in a position to control educational content to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible companies that have occurred within the past 24 months. Ineligible companies are organizations whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients.

All relevant financial relationships for anyone with the ability to control the content of this educational activity are listed below and have been mitigated according to Partners policies. Others involved in the planning of this activity have no relevant financial relationships.

Faculy Bios & Disclosures:

Coach Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM – CEO of DiabetesEd Services

Disclosures: 

Beverly Thomassian has no financial disclosures

Bio:

Author, Nurse, Educator, Clinician, and Innovator, Beverly has specialized in diabetes management for over twenty years. As president and founder of Diabetes Education Services, Beverly is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence based diabetes education and improving the lives of those with diabetes.

PicsArt_04 03 11Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES 

Disclosures:

Dr. Diana Isaacs has the following relevant financial relationships:

  • Consultant, advisor, and speaker for Abbot Labratories, Dexcom, Medtronic, Insulet, Lilly, Cequr, Sanofi, and Undermyfork
  • Board member at Association for Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

Bio:

Diana Isaacs was awarded 2020 ADCES Diabetes Educator of the Year for her educational platform promoting the use of CGM for people with diabetes and other innovations.  She serves in leadership roles for several pharmacies and diabetes organizations. She has numerous diabetes publications and research projects with a focus on medications, CGM and diabetes technology.

For the past three year, Dr. Isaacs has served as a contributing author for the 2023 ADA Standards of Care.

As the Program Coordinator and clinical pharmacist specialist in the Cleveland Clinic Diabetes Center, Dr. Isaacs brings a wealth of clinical knowledge combined with extensive research and speaking experience to this program. 

Activity Start and End Date: 10/22/25 – 10/23/2025

Estimated time to complete the activity: 15 hours and 30 minutes

_____________________________________

Jointly provided by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education and Diabetes Education Services



Joint Accreditation Statement:

 In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) and Diabetes Education Services. Partners is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Physician Continuing Education:

Partners designates this enduring material for a maximum of 15.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Nursing Continuing Professional Development:

The maximum number of hours awarded for this Nursing Continuing Professional Development activity is 15.50 contact hours.

Pharmacy Continuing Education:

Partners designates this continuing education activity for 15.50 contact hour(s) (1.550 CEUs) of the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
(Universal Activity Number – JA4008073-9999-25-206-L01-P)
Type of Activity: Application

For Pharmacists: Upon successfully completing the activity evaluation form, transcript information will be sent to the NABP CPE Monitor Service within 4 weeks.

Dietitian Continuing Education:

This program offers 15.50 CPEUs for dietitians.

Interprofessional Continuing Education:

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 15.50 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.

For additional information about the accreditation of this activity, please visit https://partnersed.com.

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

Rationale of the Week | Clinical Clues to Hypercortisolism

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on clinical clues to hypercortisolism. 53% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!

Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

AJ is a 52-year-old with type 2 diabetes presents with worsening hyperglycemia despite taking three diabetes medications.  AJ says, “No matter what I do, I can’t seem to get my blood sugars down”.

Which of the following clusters of physical findings would increase your suspicion that AJ is struggling with hypercortisolism?

  1. Dorsocervical fat pad, wide purple striae and bruising.
  2. Peripheral muscle hypertrophy, thick hair growth, and flushed skin.
  3. Weight loss, skin hyperpigmentation, and generalized muscle wasting.
  4. Pallor, brittle nails, and spoon-shaped fingernails.

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 1 is correct. 53.62% chose this answer, “Dorsocervical fat pad, wide purple striae and bruising.”  YES, GREAT JOB!  These are classic physical features of hypercortisolism. Dorsocervical fat pad, wide purple striae and easy bruising along with proximal muscle weakness, and poor wound healing, should prompt evaluation for hypercortisolism in people with elevated glucose and hypertension, despite being on several medications for blood glucose and blood pressure.

Answer 2 is incorrect. 20.47% of you chose this answer, “Peripheral muscle hypertrophy, thick hair growth, and flushed skin.” These features are not characteristic of hypercortisolism; thick hair growth and muscle hypertrophy point to other conditions.

Answer 3 is incorrect. 16.34% of respondents chose this, “Weight loss, skin hyperpigmentation, and generalized muscle wasting.” These features are more consistent with Addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency) or chronic illness, not hypercortisolism.

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect.9.58% chose this answer, “Pallor, brittle nails, and spoon-shaped fingernails.” These findings are typically seen in iron-deficiency anemia, not hypercortisolism.

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!

More than a course, an experience.

Live in San Diego
DiabetesEd Training Seminar

Join us live October 22nd – 23rd, 2025!

30+ CEs with Expanded Accreditation!

Join our expert team for engaging, interactive sessions that bring the ADA Standards of Care to life—covering medications, behavior change, technology, and more. Ideal for CDCES or BC-ADM exam prep, this course also includes a 4-hour Virtual Medical Nutrition Therapy Toolkit and bonus content that also meets CDCES renewal requirements.

Program Objectives:

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

  • Describe the current ADA Standards for diagnosis, goals, and person-centered diabetes management across the lifespan. 
  • Demonstrate insulin pattern management and dosing strategies in clinical scenarios.
  • Implement timely screening and risk reduction strategies for microvascular and cardiovascular complications.  
  • Incorporate behavior change techniques and medical nutrition therapy to support people with diabetes self-management and lifestyle adjustment.  

Expert Faculty:

Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES

Smiling woman in white blazer and lavender blouse

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

Faculty Bios & Disclosures

Our expert team transforms complex diabetes science into clear, practical insights—keeping it real, engaging, and fun!

Program Faculty Disclosures:

Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) requires every individual in a position to control educational content to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible companies that have occurred within the past 24 months. Ineligible companies are organizations whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients.

All relevant financial relationships for anyone with the ability to control the content of this educational activity are listed below and have been mitigated according to Partners policies. Others involved in the planning of this activity have no relevant financial relationships.

Faculy Bios & Disclosures:

Coach Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM – CEO of DiabetesEd Services

Disclosures: 

Beverly Thomassian has no financial disclosures

Bio:

Author, Nurse, Educator, Clinician, and Innovator, Beverly has specialized in diabetes management for over twenty years. As president and founder of Diabetes Education Services, Beverly is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence based diabetes education and improving the lives of those with diabetes.

PicsArt_04 03 11Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES 

Disclosures:

Dr. Diana Isaacs has the following relevant financial relationships:

  • Consultant, advisor, and speaker for Abbot Labratories, Dexcom, Medtronic, Insulet, Lilly, Cequr, Sanofi, and Undermyfork
  • Board member at Association for Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

Bio:

Diana Isaacs was awarded 2020 ADCES Diabetes Educator of the Year for her educational platform promoting the use of CGM for people with diabetes and other innovations.  She serves in leadership roles for several pharmacies and diabetes organizations. She has numerous diabetes publications and research projects with a focus on medications, CGM and diabetes technology.

For the past three year, Dr. Isaacs has served as a contributing author for the 2023 ADA Standards of Care.

As the Program Coordinator and clinical pharmacist specialist in the Cleveland Clinic Diabetes Center, Dr. Isaacs brings a wealth of clinical knowledge combined with extensive research and speaking experience to this program. 

Activity Start and End Date: 10/22/25 – 10/23/2025

Estimated time to complete the activity: 15 hours and 30 minutes

_____________________________________

Jointly provided by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education and Diabetes Education Services



Joint Accreditation Statement:

 In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) and Diabetes Education Services. Partners is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Physician Continuing Education:

Partners designates this enduring material for a maximum of 15.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Nursing Continuing Professional Development:

The maximum number of hours awarded for this Nursing Continuing Professional Development activity is 15.50 contact hours.

Pharmacy Continuing Education:

Partners designates this continuing education activity for 15.50 contact hour(s) (1.550 CEUs) of the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
(Universal Activity Number – JA4008073-9999-25-206-L01-P)
Type of Activity: Application

For Pharmacists: Upon successfully completing the activity evaluation form, transcript information will be sent to the NABP CPE Monitor Service within 4 weeks.

Dietitian Continuing Education:

This program offers 15.50 CPEUs for dietitians.

Interprofessional Continuing Education:

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 15.50 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.

For additional information about the accreditation of this activity, please visit https://partnersed.com.

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

Rationale of the Week | Diabetes Distraction in the Clinic

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Diabetes Distraction in the Clinic. 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 below: Answer Question

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

In the clinic today, you are seeing L.K., a 28-year-old with type 1 diabetes who was diagnosed at the age of 10. She was referred by the healthcare team for carb counting education and to discuss insulin pump options. During the session, L.K. appears preoccupied with her phone, avoids eye contact, and appears disinterested. When you ask what L.K.’s goals are for today’s session, she reports, “No matter how hard I try, no one is ever happy with my readings. Going on a pump isn’t going to change that”.

As a diabetes care and education specialist, what would you do?

  1. Point out to L.K. that she appears distracted and ask her if she wants to reschedule the appointment.
  2. Educate L.K. on diabetes-related complications related to chronic hyperglycemia.
  3. Continue the education session as planned, but make sure to provide handouts she can use later.
  4. Pause the session to explore L.K.’s feelings and beliefs about her diabetes care and previous experiences.

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 1 is incorrect. 1% chose this answer, “Point out to L.K. that she appears distracted and ask her if she wants to reschedule the appointment.” L.K. verbalized her frustration with her diabetes and the healthcare system. As the diabetes healthcare provider, you are poised not only to provide information, but also to build a trusting relationship using person-centered approach. Stopping the session and rescheduling might derail collaboration and forward movement.

Answer 2 is incorrect. 1% of you chose this answer, “Educate L.K. on diabetes-related complications related to chronic hyperglycemia.” Although educating clients about the potential health outcomes of chronic hyperglycemia is essential, it does not constitute a person-centered approach in this situation. L.K. has made it clear that she is frustrated with her diabetes and healthcare experience.

Answer 3 is incorrect. About 1% of respondents chose this, “Continue the education session as planned, but make sure to provide handouts she can use later.” Continuing the education session with L.K. after she has verbalized her frustration is not a person-centered approach to care. She will not be engaged and an active participant in her care if she does not feel heard and validated.

Finally, Answer 4 is correct. 97% chose this answer, “Pause the session to explore L.K.’s feelings and beliefs about her diabetes care and previous experiences.” Every client has both positive and negative experiences in their diabetes journey that will influence their diabetes self-management and health outcomes. The statement she made in the diabetes education session must be addressed and discussed to build trust and understand her specific concerns. This approach is person-centered, leading to a shared decision-making approach to her personal diabetes goals.

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!

Live in San Diego
DiabetesEd Training Seminar

Join us live October 22nd – 23rd, 2025!

30+ CEs with Expanded Accreditation!

More than a course, an experience.

Join our expert team for engaging, interactive sessions that bring the ADA Standards of Care to life—covering medications, behavior change, technology, and more. Ideal for CDCES or BC-ADM exam prep, this course also includes a 4-hour Virtual Medical Nutrition Therapy Toolkit and bonus content that also meets CDCES renewal requirements.

Program Objectives:

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

  • Describe the current ADA Standards for diagnosis, goals, and person-centered diabetes management across the lifespan. 
  • Demonstrate insulin pattern management and dosing strategies in clinical scenarios.
  • Implement timely screening and risk reduction strategies for microvascular and cardiovascular complications.  
  • Incorporate behavior change techniques and medical nutrition therapy to support people with diabetes self-management and lifestyle adjustment.  

Expert Faculty:

Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES

Smiling woman in white blazer and lavender blouse

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

Faculty Bios & Disclosures

Our expert team transforms complex diabetes science into clear, practical insights—keeping it real, engaging, and fun!

Program Faculty Disclosures:

Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) requires every individual in a position to control educational content to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible companies that have occurred within the past 24 months. Ineligible companies are organizations whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients.

All relevant financial relationships for anyone with the ability to control the content of this educational activity are listed below and have been mitigated according to Partners policies. Others involved in the planning of this activity have no relevant financial relationships.

Faculy Bios & Disclosures:

Coach Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM – CEO of DiabetesEd Services

Disclosures: 

Beverly Thomassian has no financial disclosures

Bio:

Author, Nurse, Educator, Clinician, and Innovator, Beverly has specialized in diabetes management for over twenty years. As president and founder of Diabetes Education Services, Beverly is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence based diabetes education and improving the lives of those with diabetes.

PicsArt_04 03 11Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES 

Disclosures:

Dr. Diana Isaacs has the following relevant financial relationships:

  • Consultant, advisor, and speaker for Abbot Labratories, Dexcom, Medtronic, Insulet, Lilly, Cequr, Sanofi, and Undermyfork
  • Board member at Association for Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

Bio:

Diana Isaacs was awarded 2020 ADCES Diabetes Educator of the Year for her educational platform promoting the use of CGM for people with diabetes and other innovations.  She serves in leadership roles for several pharmacies and diabetes organizations. She has numerous diabetes publications and research projects with a focus on medications, CGM and diabetes technology.

For the past three year, Dr. Isaacs has served as a contributing author for the 2023 ADA Standards of Care.

As the Program Coordinator and clinical pharmacist specialist in the Cleveland Clinic Diabetes Center, Dr. Isaacs brings a wealth of clinical knowledge combined with extensive research and speaking experience to this program. 

Activity Start and End Date: 10/22/25 – 10/23/2025

Estimated time to complete the activity: 15 hours and 30 minutes

_____________________________________

Jointly provided by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education and Diabetes Education Services



Joint Accreditation Statement:

 In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) and Diabetes Education Services. Partners is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Physician Continuing Education:

Partners designates this enduring material for a maximum of 15.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Nursing Continuing Professional Development:

The maximum number of hours awarded for this Nursing Continuing Professional Development activity is 15.50 contact hours.

Pharmacy Continuing Education:

Partners designates this continuing education activity for 15.50 contact hour(s) (1.550 CEUs) of the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
(Universal Activity Number – JA4008073-9999-25-206-L01-P)
Type of Activity: Application

For Pharmacists: Upon successfully completing the activity evaluation form, transcript information will be sent to the NABP CPE Monitor Service within 4 weeks.

Dietitian Continuing Education:

This program offers 15.50 CPEUs for dietitians.

Interprofessional Continuing Education:

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 15.50 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.

For additional information about the accreditation of this activity, please visit https://partnersed.com.

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

Rationale of the Week | Diabetes Type 3c: Misdiagnosis and Clarification

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Diabetes Type 3c: Misdiagnosis and Clarification 48% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!

Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

Diabetes Type 3c is often misdiagnosed as type 2 diabetes. A colleague asks you to clarify what is meant by Diabetes Type 3c.

What is the most accurate response?

  1. A form of diabetes caused by autoantibodies attacking pancreatic beta cells, typically in early adulthood.
  2. A form of diabetes that results from damage to the exocrine pancreatic function.
  3. A genetic form of diabetes caused by mutations affecting insulin production or function.
  4. A form of diabetes that affects cognition and is associated with increased risk of dementia.

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 1 is incorrect. 17.19% chose this answer, “A form of diabetes caused by autoantibodies attacking pancreatic beta cells, typically in early adulthood.” This answer describes the autoimmune Type 1 diabetes or LADA.

Answer 2 is correct. 48.19% of you chose this answer, “A form of diabetes that results from damage to the exocrine pancreatic function.” Great Job! This answer correctly describes Type 3c (pancreatogenic diabetes), which results from pancreatic exocrine dysfunction like pancreatitis, pancreatic surgery, or cystic fibrosis.

Answer 3 is incorrect. About 16.97% of respondents chose this, “A genetic form of diabetes caused by mutations affecting insulin production or function.” This description refers to monogenic diabetes, such as MODY.

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect.17.65% chose this answer, “A form of diabetes that affects cognition and is associated with increased risk of dementia.” This describes type 3 diabetes, or cognitive impairment due to ongoing hyperglycemia.

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!

Live in San Diego
DiabetesEd Training Seminar

Join us live October 22nd – 23rd, 2025!

30+ CEs with Expanded Accreditation!

More than a course, an experience.

Join our expert team for engaging, interactive sessions that bring the ADA Standards of Care to life—covering medications, behavior change, technology, and more. Ideal for CDCES or BC-ADM exam prep, this course also includes a 4-hour Virtual Medical Nutrition Therapy Toolkit and bonus content that also meets CDCES renewal requirements.

Program Objectives:

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

  • Describe the current ADA Standards for diagnosis, goals, and person-centered diabetes management across the lifespan. 
  • Demonstrate insulin pattern management and dosing strategies in clinical scenarios.
  • Implement timely screening and risk reduction strategies for microvascular and cardiovascular complications.  
  • Incorporate behavior change techniques and medical nutrition therapy to support people with diabetes self-management and lifestyle adjustment.  

Expert Faculty:

Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES

Smiling woman in white blazer and lavender blouse

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

Faculty Bios & Disclosures

Our expert team transforms complex diabetes science into clear, practical insights—keeping it real, engaging, and fun!

Program Faculty Disclosures:

Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) requires every individual in a position to control educational content to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible companies that have occurred within the past 24 months. Ineligible companies are organizations whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients.

All relevant financial relationships for anyone with the ability to control the content of this educational activity are listed below and have been mitigated according to Partners policies. Others involved in the planning of this activity have no relevant financial relationships.

Faculy Bios & Disclosures:

Coach Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM – CEO of DiabetesEd Services

Disclosures: 

Beverly Thomassian has no financial disclosures

Bio:

Author, Nurse, Educator, Clinician, and Innovator, Beverly has specialized in diabetes management for over twenty years. As president and founder of Diabetes Education Services, Beverly is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence based diabetes education and improving the lives of those with diabetes.

PicsArt_04 03 11Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES 

Disclosures:

Dr. Diana Isaacs has the following relevant financial relationships:

  • Consultant, advisor, and speaker for Abbot Labratories, Dexcom, Medtronic, Insulet, Lilly, Cequr, Sanofi, and Undermyfork
  • Board member at Association for Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

Bio:

Diana Isaacs was awarded 2020 ADCES Diabetes Educator of the Year for her educational platform promoting the use of CGM for people with diabetes and other innovations.  She serves in leadership roles for several pharmacies and diabetes organizations. She has numerous diabetes publications and research projects with a focus on medications, CGM and diabetes technology.

For the past three year, Dr. Isaacs has served as a contributing author for the 2023 ADA Standards of Care.

As the Program Coordinator and clinical pharmacist specialist in the Cleveland Clinic Diabetes Center, Dr. Isaacs brings a wealth of clinical knowledge combined with extensive research and speaking experience to this program. 

Activity Start and End Date: 10/22/25 – 10/23/2025

Estimated time to complete the activity: 15 hours and 30 minutes

_____________________________________

Jointly provided by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education and Diabetes Education Services



Joint Accreditation Statement:

 In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) and Diabetes Education Services. Partners is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Physician Continuing Education:

Partners designates this enduring material for a maximum of 15.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Nursing Continuing Professional Development:

The maximum number of hours awarded for this Nursing Continuing Professional Development activity is 15.50 contact hours.

Pharmacy Continuing Education:

Partners designates this continuing education activity for 15.50 contact hour(s) (1.550 CEUs) of the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
(Universal Activity Number – JA4008073-9999-25-206-L01-P)
Type of Activity: Application

For Pharmacists: Upon successfully completing the activity evaluation form, transcript information will be sent to the NABP CPE Monitor Service within 4 weeks.

Dietitian Continuing Education:

This program offers 15.50 CPEUs for dietitians.

Interprofessional Continuing Education:

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 15.50 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.

For additional information about the accreditation of this activity, please visit https://partnersed.com.

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

Rationale of the Week | Navigating Diabetes Care on the Road?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Navigating Diabetes Care on the Road. 84of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!

Before we start though, if you don’t want any spoilers and haven’t tried the question yet, you can answer it below: Answer Question

Lightbulb and text: Rationale of the Week

SJ is a 62-year-old long-haul truck driver with type 2 diabetes for the past 18 years. They take basal insulin nightly and metformin twice daily. Despite consistency of medications and a recent focus on lifestyle changes, Time in Range remains at 5% with a GMI of 9.2%. Last A1c was 9.7%. No history of hypoglycemia nor signs of retinopathy or neuropathy are documented. Incretin therapy or SGLT-2 inhibitor has been recommended but SJ shares that the insurance share of cost makes those medications unaffordable. SJ has an erratic schedule and drives across multiple states for work. They report fatigue during long drives but denies difficulty with driving nor any episodes of low blood glucose. SJ is motivated to improve diabetes management but is concerned about their livelihood if license were to be impacted.

As the diabetes care and education specialist, which of the following is the most appropriate next step in SJ’s care plan?

  1. Advise SJ to stop driving until A1C is under 7%.
  2. Report SJ to the state licensing agency due to hyperglycemia and commercial driving risk.
  3. Collaborate with SJ to develop an individualized plan focused on driving safety and affordable medication strategies.
  4. SJ would benefit from prandial insulin therapy, recommend switching to a premixed insulin regimen to improve time in range.

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 1 is incorrect. 2% chose this answer, “Advise SJ to stop driving until A1C is under 7%.” Stopping driving based on an elevated A1C or Time in Range not at target is not recommended unless there is a clear safety risk. Hyperglycemia alone, without symptoms or complications, does not justify driving restrictions. Further assessment is needed before recommending driving cessation.¹

Answer 2 is incorrect. 1% of you chose this answer, “Report SJ to the state licensing agency due to hyperglycemia and commercial driving risk.” There is no legal or clinical basis to report SJ at this time. Reporting should occur if it is believed SJ poses a risk to public safety, such as recurrent severe hypoglycemia or functional impairments1 affecting driving ability.

Answer 3 is correct. About 84% of respondents chose this, “Collaborate with SJ to develop an individualized plan focused on driving safety and affordable medication strategies.” Individualized care should be emphasized, particularly in cases where cost limits access to newer therapies. We can explore medication cost saving resources, cost-effective oral agents, titration of basal insulin if not already optimized, or addition of prandial insulin support glycemia. SJ has been driving for many years, ensure driving safety strategies and ensure SJ knows the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration rules, which allow individuals with insulin-treated diabetes to drive commercially, as long as safety is maintained.² 

Finally, Answer 4 is incorrect. 13% chose this answer, “SJ would benefit from prandial insulin therapy, recommend switching to a premixed insulin regimen to improve time in range.” Premixed insulin may not be the best option for someone like SJ with an unpredictable schedule. It increases the risk of hypoglycemia and limits flexibility. While it may help improve A1C, other options should be considered first, including more flexible insulin regimens or cost-conscious oral therapies.

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!

Live in San Diego
DiabetesEd Training Seminar

Join us live October 22nd – 23rd, 2025!

30+ CEs with Expanded Accreditation!

More than a course, an experience.

Join our expert team for engaging, interactive sessions that bring the ADA Standards of Care to life—covering medications, behavior change, technology, and more. Ideal for CDCES or BC-ADM exam prep, this course also includes a 4-hour Virtual Medical Nutrition Therapy Toolkit and bonus content that also meets CDCES renewal requirements.

Program Objectives:

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

  • Describe the current ADA Standards for diagnosis, goals, and person-centered diabetes management across the lifespan. 
  • Demonstrate insulin pattern management and dosing strategies in clinical scenarios.
  • Implement timely screening and risk reduction strategies for microvascular and cardiovascular complications.  
  • Incorporate behavior change techniques and medical nutrition therapy to support people with diabetes self-management and lifestyle adjustment.  

Expert Faculty:

Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES

Smiling woman in white blazer and lavender blouse

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

Faculty Bios & Disclosures

Our expert team transforms complex diabetes science into clear, practical insights—keeping it real, engaging, and fun!

Program Faculty Disclosures:

Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) requires every individual in a position to control educational content to disclose all financial relationships with ineligible companies that have occurred within the past 24 months. Ineligible companies are organizations whose primary business is producing, marketing, selling, re-selling, or distributing healthcare products used by or on patients.

All relevant financial relationships for anyone with the ability to control the content of this educational activity are listed below and have been mitigated according to Partners policies. Others involved in the planning of this activity have no relevant financial relationships.

Faculy Bios & Disclosures:

Coach Beverly Thomassian RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM – CEO of DiabetesEd Services

Disclosures: 

Beverly Thomassian has no financial disclosures

Bio:

Author, Nurse, Educator, Clinician, and Innovator, Beverly has specialized in diabetes management for over twenty years. As president and founder of Diabetes Education Services, Beverly is dedicated to providing compassionate and evidence based diabetes education and improving the lives of those with diabetes.

PicsArt_04 03 11Diana Isaacs, PharmD, BCPS, BCACP, CDCES, BC-ADM, FADCES, FCCPCES 

Disclosures:

Dr. Diana Isaacs has the following relevant financial relationships:

  • Consultant, advisor, and speaker for Abbot Labratories, Dexcom, Medtronic, Insulet, Lilly, Cequr, Sanofi, and Undermyfork
  • Board member at Association for Diabetes Care and Education Specialists

Bio:

Diana Isaacs was awarded 2020 ADCES Diabetes Educator of the Year for her educational platform promoting the use of CGM for people with diabetes and other innovations.  She serves in leadership roles for several pharmacies and diabetes organizations. She has numerous diabetes publications and research projects with a focus on medications, CGM and diabetes technology.

For the past three year, Dr. Isaacs has served as a contributing author for the 2023 ADA Standards of Care.

As the Program Coordinator and clinical pharmacist specialist in the Cleveland Clinic Diabetes Center, Dr. Isaacs brings a wealth of clinical knowledge combined with extensive research and speaking experience to this program. 

Activity Start and End Date: 10/22/25 – 10/23/2025

Estimated time to complete the activity: 15 hours and 30 minutes

_____________________________________

Jointly provided by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education and Diabetes Education Services



Joint Accreditation Statement:

 In support of improving patient care, this activity has been planned and implemented by Partners for Advancing Clinical Education (Partners) and Diabetes Education Services. Partners is jointly accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME), the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE), and the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), to provide continuing education for the healthcare team.

Physician Continuing Education:

Partners designates this enduring material for a maximum of 15.50 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

Nursing Continuing Professional Development:

The maximum number of hours awarded for this Nursing Continuing Professional Development activity is 15.50 contact hours.

Pharmacy Continuing Education:

Partners designates this continuing education activity for 15.50 contact hour(s) (1.550 CEUs) of the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education.
(Universal Activity Number – JA4008073-9999-25-206-L01-P)
Type of Activity: Application

For Pharmacists: Upon successfully completing the activity evaluation form, transcript information will be sent to the NABP CPE Monitor Service within 4 weeks.

Dietitian Continuing Education:

This program offers 15.50 CPEUs for dietitians.

Interprofessional Continuing Education:

This activity was planned by and for the healthcare team, and learners will receive 15.50 Interprofessional Continuing Education (IPCE) credit for learning and change.

For additional information about the accreditation of this activity, please visit https://partnersed.com.

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

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