Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What should be the priority for someone with diabetes who displays signs of confusion during an appointment?

1. Test blood glucose levels immediately.

2. Review medications comprehensively.

3. Ask about dietary habits.

4. Inquire about recent stressors.

The correct answer is: Test blood glucose levels immediately.

The priority for someone with diabetes who is showing signs of confusion is to test blood glucose levels immediately. Confusion can be a symptom of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) or, less commonly, hyperglycemia (high blood sugar), conditions that can become serious if not addressed quickly. By checking blood glucose levels first, the healthcare provider can ascertain if the patient's state of confusion is due to an immediate and correctable cause. If the blood sugar is low, rapid intervention with a source of glucose can quickly improve the patient's cognitive function and prevent further complications. While reviewing medications, asking about dietary habits, and inquiring about recent stressors are essential components of diabetes management, they take a secondary role in this context where immediate safety and stabilization of the patient are critical. The rapid evaluation of glucose levels informs the appropriate next steps for treatment and ensures that the patient receives timely intervention based on their current condition.