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Rationale of the Week | Diabetes Tech and Diabetes Distress

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Diabetes Tech and Diabetes Distress. 99.36% 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

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Kyle is a 55-year-old man with type 2 diabetes for ten years. He was recently diagnosed with retinopathy in both eyes. His grandmother lost her eyesight due to diabetes. Due to this family history, he is very concerned about his new diagnosis. He uses a Libre continuous glucose monitor (CGM) to monitor his blood sugar levels. During your visit, he is preoccupied with checking his Libre CGM and tells you that he uses his glucometer to verify CGM readings at least four to six times per day. When you ask him about this, he reports that he can’t focus on his work or home life if he isn’t over 90% time in range.

As a diabetes care and education specialist, what is the best approach to this situation?

  1. Reassure Kyle that retinopathy is very common with type 2 diabetes. Encourage him to verify the CGM with his glucometer more frequently if that helps make him feel less anxious.
  2. Educate Kyle that the CGM he is using cannot be calibrated and instruct him to stop using his glucometer, since the CGM is accurate.
  3. Acknowledge Kyle’s fears about vision loss, screen for diabetes distress, and collaborate on strategies to reduce the emotional burden of CGM use, including referral to a behavioral health provider if indicated.
  4. Adjust Kyle’s time in range target goal to >90% to meet his expectations and reduce his worry about complications.

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: 0% chose this answer, “Reassure Kyle that retinopathy is very common with type 2 diabetes. Encourage him to verify the CGM with his glucometer more frequently if that helps make him feel less anxious.” This is incorrect. Although diabetes retinopathy is a common complication of diabetes, it is not inevitable, and the risk can be reduced by maintaining optimal glycemic control. Additionally, verifying blood glucose levels with a glucometer when there appears to be no issue with his CGM will not alleviate his anxiety.

Answer B is incorrect: 0% chose this answer, “Educate Kyle that the CGM he is using cannot be calibrated and instruct him to stop using his glucometer, since the CGM is accurate.” This is incorrect. Though his particular CGM cannot be calibrated, fingerstick blood glucose readings are the gold standard when CGM readings are unexpectedly out of range.

Answer C is correct: 99.36% chose this answer, “Acknowledge Kyle’s fears about vision loss, screen for diabetes distress, and collaborate on strategies to reduce the emotional burden of CGM use, including referral to a behavioral health provider if indicated.” This is correct. Kyle is demonstrating symptoms of diabetes distress due to fear of ocular complications, perfectionism, and technology overwhelm. The ADA Standards of Care 2025 recommend routine screening for diabetes distress and other psychosocial concerns at least annually or when complications arise.

Answer D is incorrect: 0.64% chose this answer, “Adjust Kyle’s time in range target goal to >90% to meet his expectations and reduce his worry about complications.” This is incorrect: The time in range goal for most adults living with diabetes is >70%. Adjusting his time-in-range goal to >90% will not work to reduce his obsessive behavior.

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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Rationale of the Week | FIB-4 of 2.83. What Action Required?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on FIB-4 of 2.83. 48.09% 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

AR lives with type 2 diabetes, and their waistline is 41 inches. Since their ALT and AST levels are elevated, you know they are at risk for steatosis (MASH). You quickly calculate their Fibrosis-4 Index (FIB-4), by plugging in AR’s Age, AST, ALT, platelet count into the FIB-4 calculator. AR’s result is 2.83.

According to the ADA Standards, with a FIB-4 value of 2.83, which action is required?

  1. Start AR on pioglitazone and recheck FIB-4 in 3 months.
  2. Encourage AR to see a RDN and stop consumption of alcohol immediately.
  3. Suggest increased high intensity activity coupled with a GLP-1 to reduce body weight.
  4. Refer AR to liver specialist for further evaluation.

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: 18.4% chose this answer, “Start AR on pioglitazone and recheck FIB-4 in 3 months.” Although pioglitazone is a recommended treatment for steatosis, since AR’s FIB- is greater than 2.67, this indicates AR is at high risk for advanced fibrosis and a referral to a liver specialist is warranted.

Answer B is incorrect: 15.11% chose this answer, “Encourage AR to see a RDN and stop consumption of alcohol immediately.” Seeing a RDN is very important for AR to evaluate and customize an eating plan to address their steatosis and support quality of life. However, since AR’s FIB- is greater than 2.67, this indicates AR is at high risk for advanced fibrosis and a referral to a liver specialist is warranted.

Answer C is incorrect: 18.4% chose this answer, “Suggest increased high intensity activity coupled with a GLP-1 to reduce body weight.” Strength training and activity, coupled with a GLP-1 for GLP-1/GIP are important strategies to address steatosis. However, since AR’s FIB- is greater than 2.67, this indicates AR is at high risk for advanced fibrosis and a referral to a liver specialist is warranted.

Answer D is correct: 48.09% chose this answer, “Refer AR to liver specialist for further evaluation.” Great job! AR will require intensive intervention to decrease their risk of worsening steatosis, including MNT, targeted activities, and a referral to a liver specialist to determine the best treatment approach.

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!

Rationale of the Week | Which Treatment is FDA Approved for MASH?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on FDA approved treatment for MASH. 33.75% 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

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MJ just discovered that in addition to their type 2 diabetes and a BMI of 31, they also have MASH.

Based on this diagnosis, which FDA approved medication would help address their steatosis?

  1. Semaglutide (Ozempic)
  2. Empagliflozin (Jardiance)
  3. Tirzepatide (Mounjaro)
  4. Semaglutide (Wegovy)

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: 24.19% chose this answer, “Semaglutide (Ozempic).” The diabetes approved version of semaglutide (Ozempic) does not yet have FDA approval as a medication that is used for treatment of MASH.

Answer B is incorrect: 18.77% chose this answer, “Empagliflozin (Jardiance).” Although empagliflozin will reduce blood glucose and can help with weight loss, it is not FDA approved for treatment of MASH.

Answer C is incorrect: 23.29% chose this answer, “Tirzepatide (Mounjaro).” Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) is approved for treatment of diabetes, helps with weight loss and is FDA approved for sleep apnea. However it is not FDA approved for treatment of MASH.

Answer D is correct: 33.75% chose this answer, “Semaglutide (Wegovy).” The weight loss approved version of semaglutide (Wegovy) has FDA approval as a medication that is used for treatment of MASH.

Please see our new “Indications for GLP-1/GIP” Cheat Sheet for a complete run down.  

We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!

Want to Learn More about this Question?

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

Day 1 – ADA/AACE Standards of Care Boot Camp

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

Day 2 – Insulin, Tech, MNT and Case Studies

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

Add-On Day 3 – Engaging the Disengaged

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

Read more below

🌟Registration Options at a Glance

📜 Essentials

Registration
+ Printed Syllabus

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+ ADCES Review Guide e-Book

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5 Reasons to Attend

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

What's Included?

  • 🍽️ Healthy breakfasts, lunch, refreshments and coffee ☕
  • 📘 100-page printed syllabus
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  • 🎓 12 FREE online courses ($375 value)
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Add on a 3rd Day!
Enroll in ENGAGING THE DISENGAGED
Strategies for Promoting Behavior Change in Diabetes
October 24, 2026

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

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

The answer lies in the psychology of diabetes.

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

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

Rationale of the Week | Lifestyle Therapy for MASLD and MASH

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on Lifestyle Therapy for MASLD and MASH. 83% of respondents chose the best answer. We want to clarify and share this important information, so you can pass it on to people living with diabetes and your colleagues, plus prepare for exam success!

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

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PJ has had type 2 diabetes for 8 years and is here for a follow-up visit. Labs indicate A1c at 7.2%, lipids at target, eGFR of 78 mL/min/1.73m², and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) of 65 mg/dL. Blood pressure at the office visit today was 142/86, which is consistent with home monitored values. PJ confirms taking medications, metformin and simvastatin. PJ inquires about recently completed lab work.

According to the ADA Standards of Care, what would be an appropriate next step in the diabetes care plan?

  1. No changes are needed because kidney function is within normal range.
  2. Initiate an ACE inhibitor or ARB to reduce progression the of diabetic kidney disease.
  3. Discontinue metformin due to the risk of kidney injury with reduced eGFR.
  4. Increase statin therapy to target albuminuria reduction.

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: 6.35% chose this answer, “No changes are needed because kidney function is within normal range.” A is incorrect. Although eGFR indicates stage 2 kidney disease, the elevated UACR, ≥30 mg/g, confirms moderately increased risk and recommendation to treat. Additionally, PJ’s blood pressure is also above the target. Intervention is needed to protect kidney and cardiovascular health.

Answer B is correct: 83% chose this answer, “Initiate an ACE inhibitor or ARB to reduce progression the of diabetic kidney disease.” PJ has a mildly decreased eGFR, but UACR is elevated above 30 mg/g, indicating a recommendation to treat. Additionally, intervention is needed to optimize blood pressure. According to the ADA Standards of Care in Diabetes, individuals with diabetes, hypertension, and moderately increased albuminuria should be treated with an ACE inhibitor or angiotensin receptor blocker. The use of sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors or glucagon-like peptide 1 agonists (GLP1-RA), with demonstrated benefits, could also be considered to reduce CKD progression.

Answer C is incorrect: 5.25% chose this answer, “Discontinue metformin due to the risk of kidney injury with reduced eGFR.” Metformin is safe to continue unless eGFR falls below 30 30 mL/min/1.73m². PJ’s kidney function is adequate for continued use. However, consideration to add a change to SGLT2 or GLP1 with kidney benefit could also promote additional A1c reduction.

Answer D is incorrect: 5.52% chose this answer, “Increase statin therapy to target albuminuria reduction.” Statins are recommended for ASCVD prevention, but they do not reduce albuminuria. Lipids are within normal range, and albuminuria should be addressed with an ACE inhibitor/ARB or potentially a SGLT2 inhibitor or GLP-1 RA.

We hope you appreciate this week’s rationale! Thank you so much for taking the time to answer our Question of the Week and participate in this fun learning activity!

Want to learn more about this question?

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From the Gut to the Butt – Exploring the GI System

Explore the magnificent world of diabetes and the gut — from periodontal disease to the microbiome and everything in between.

Join Coach Beverly Thomassian, RN, MPH, CDCES, BC-ADM, for a fascinating journey through gastrointestinal health from top to bottom. This course covers fatty liver disease, gastroparesis, intestinal complications of diabetes, the gut microbiome, and more — giving you the knowledge to better support whole-body health.

Rationale of the Week | Grandfather Avoiding Bolus Insulin

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on insulin. 96% 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

R.S. is a 60-year-old with type 2 diabetes who was recently placed on insulin lispro at meals.  He has taken insulin glargine once a day for five years. Previously, non-insulin medications have been ineffective or not tolerated. He continues to have hyperglycemia despite the addition of insulin lispro.  During his diabetes education visit today, he shared that he has not been taking his mealtime insulin lispro because he does not want to inject it in front of his grandchildren, who live with him.  He feels overwhelmed by these additional injections but wants to get his blood glucose levels under better control so he can have the energy to play with his grandchildren and avoid losing his eyesight like his mother did.

As the diabetes care and education specialist, which of the following would be the most appropriate first step in addressing R.S.’s concerns? 

  1. Stress with R.S. the importance of never missing his meal time lispro to prevent diabetes-related complications.
  2. Using open-ended questions, explore R.S.’s routine, stressors, and support systems to understand the barriers to his insulin use.
  3. Recommend R.S. switch to another non-insulin medication to make his regimen easier for him to manage.
  4. Since it appears R.S. did not understand how to take his insulin lispro, write out step-by-step instructions on how to take the insulin.

Getting to the Best Answer

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

Answer A is incorrect: 1% chose this answer, “Stress with R.S. the importance of never missing his meal time lispro to prevent diabetes-related complications.” R.S. is aware that his glycemic control is important, and he is already aware of the risk of diabetes-related complications. Counseling him on this would not help him be successful with his insulin management.  

Answer B is correct: 96% chose this answer, “Using open-ended questions, explore R.S.’s routine, stressors, and support systems to understand the barriers to his insulin use.” R.S. is struggling with barriers to successful insulin management.  A holistic approach would be to ask open-ended questions about his current routine, stressors, and support systems to gain a better understanding of these barriers. This information can lead to a personalized plan of care to help improve glycemic control. 

Answer C is incorrect: 2% chose this answer, “Recommend R.S. switch to another non-insulin medication to make his regimen easier for him to manage.” He has already attempted other non-insulin therapies, and these were either ineffective or not tolerated. Changing his regimen would not be successful at improving his glycemic control and quality of life.

Answer D is incorrect: 1% chose this answer, “Since it appears R.S. did not understand how to take his insulin lispro, write out step-by-step instructions on how to take the insulin.” R.S. appears to understand how to take his insulin lispro at meals. Writing out the instructions would not improve his situation. It is not a lack of knowledge, but the multiple barriers in his life that are keeping him from being able to implement this new medication regimen.  

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 | 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!

Rationale of the Week | MS keeps getting UTI’s – Best action?

For last week’s practice question, we quizzed participants on MS continuously getting UTIs, 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

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MS is a 59-year-old with type 2 diabetes who is struggling with frequent urinary tract infections. They are on metformin and empagliflozin, and their A1C is 7.3%. MS has already received several courses of antibiotics.

Which of the following actions would you recommend?

  1. Drink sugar-free cranberry juice a few times a week.
  2. Apply topical vaginal estrogen cream.
  3. Get A1C below 7% by adding basal insulin.
  4. Evaluate MS for autoimmune conditions.

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, “Drink sugar-free cranberry juice a few times a week.” Scientific studies have yielded mixed and inconsistent results regarding the effectiveness of cranberry juice for prevention. MS needs an intervention that will provide ongoing relief.

Answer B is correct: % chose this answer, “Apply topical vaginal estrogen cream.” Vaginal estrogen cream can help prevent recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) in postmenopausal women by restoring the health of vaginal and urinary tissues. Estrogen helps restore a healthy vaginal pH, increases beneficial bacteria, and improves circulation, creating an environment that is less hospitable to uropathogens. It is a non-antibiotic option recommended by medical societies and is associated with a significant reduction in rUTIs.

Answer C is incorrect: % chose this answer, “Get A1C below 7% by adding basal insulin.” Getting A1C to target can reduce risk of infections, but MS A1C is already close to target. They need an effective treatment for their frequent UTI’s.

Answer D is incorrect: % chose this answer, “Evaluate MS for autoimmune conditions.” Frequent UTIs are not usually associated with autoimmune conditions. MS needs an effective treatment for their frequent UTI’s.

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!

Learn more about HRT and UTIs in our blog “Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – What You Need to Know”

Learn More From Our Expert

Dr. Jill Schramm, DNP, FNP-C, BC-ADM, CDCES

Level 5 | Hot Flashes & Hyperglycemia

Recorded and Ready For Viewing!

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.