Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What would be the major benefit of self-monitoring of blood glucose for a sedentary woman with type 2 diabetes who is on metformin?

1. Provide information for titration of metformin

2. Detect, identify, and prevent hypoglycemia

3. Facilitate behavior change

4. Determine the need for insulin

The correct answer is: Facilitate behavior change

Self-monitoring of blood glucose is an essential tool for managing diabetes as it empowers individuals to take an active role in their care. For a sedentary woman with type 2 diabetes who is on metformin, the primary benefit is that it facilitates behavior change. By regularly checking blood glucose levels, she can gain valuable insights into how her lifestyle choices—such as diet, physical activity, and medication adherence—impact her blood sugar. For someone who is sedentary, this monitoring may highlight the effects of physical inactivity on her glucose levels and motivate her to incorporate more exercise into her routine. The act of self-monitoring encourages the individual to establish connections between specific behaviors and their corresponding blood glucose responses, which can lead to more informed lifestyle modifications. This feedback loop can help her set goals for healthier eating and physical activity, ultimately aiding in better overall diabetes management. While other options address important aspects of diabetes care, none align as closely with the primary benefit of empowering the patient to make informed decisions that lead to long-term changes in behavior. For instance, while detecting hypoglycemia is crucial, it is more relevant for individuals on insulin or those who are very active; similarly, titration of metformin or determining the need for insulin typically relies