CDCES Patient Communication Skills 3

Question 1

A patient with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes asks, 'Will I need to give myself shots forever?' What is the BEST initial response?

Accepted Answer

Acknowledge the concern, clarify type 2 management options, and invite further questions

Answer

Acknowledging the concern and providing accurate, individualized information about type 2 management options addresses the patient's fear without false reassurance.

Question 2

Which of the following BEST demonstrates active listening during a patient education session?

Accepted Answer

Nodding, maintaining eye contact, and reflecting back what the patient said

Answer

Active listening involves nonverbal engagement and reflective responses that show the patient they have been heard.

Question 3

A patient with diabetes-related distress says, 'I feel like no matter what I do, my numbers are never good enough.' The DCES's BEST response is:

Accepted Answer

Reflect the feeling: 'It sounds like you're feeling really frustrated and discouraged.'

Answer

Reflective listening validates the patient's emotional experience and is the first step in addressing diabetes distress effectively.

Question 4

When educating an older adult patient about hypoglycemia recognition, the DCES should:

Accepted Answer

Adapt education to address atypical symptoms and potential cognitive changes

Answer

Older adults may present with atypical hypoglycemia symptoms and cognitive changes that require tailored education strategies.

Question 5

A DCES is preparing educational materials for a patient who reads at a 4th-grade level. Which action is MOST appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Rewrite materials at a 6th-grade level or below using plain language and visuals

Answer

Health literacy guidelines recommend written materials at or below a 6th-grade reading level, supplemented with visuals, for patients with limited literacy.

(CDCES) Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist Practice Test

(CDCES) Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist Practice Test

CDCES Patient Communication Skills 3