Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What is the most appropriate statement regarding pre-exercise warm-up for a patient with multiple diabetes-related complications?

1. No referral or extensive pre-exercise evaluation is needed

2. The patient should get an ECG test because she is sedentary

3. A referral for an ECG stress test and a retinopathy exam is necessary

4. Referrals to multiple specialists are compulsory

The correct answer is: A referral for an ECG stress test and a retinopathy exam is necessary

The most appropriate statement regarding pre-exercise warm-up for a patient with multiple diabetes-related complications highlights the importance of comprehensive evaluation and safety precautions before engaging in physical activity. In this case, suggesting a referral for an ECG stress test and a retinopathy exam is crucial due to the potential risks associated with diabetes-related complications, such as cardiovascular issues and retinopathy. Patients with a history of prolonged sedentary behavior, combined with complications like neuropathy or retinopathy, may have an increased risk of cardiovascular events during exercise. An ECG stress test can help assess the cardiovascular response to physical exertion, ensuring that it is safe for the patient to engage in exercise. Additionally, a retinopathy exam is necessary to detect any retinal changes that could be exacerbated by increased physical activity. This pre-exercise evaluation ensures tailored recommendations based on individual health status, thus providing a safe and effective approach to include physical activity in their diabetes management plan.