CDE Complications 2

Question 1

A patient with type 2 diabetes reports numbness and tingling in both feet that worsens at night. Which complication is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Distal symmetric polyneuropathy

Answer

Distal symmetric polyneuropathy is the most common form of diabetic neuropathy, causing bilateral numbness and tingling that typically worsens at night.

Question 2

Which finding on a monofilament foot exam indicates loss of protective sensation?

Accepted Answer

Unable to feel the 10-g monofilament at one or more sites

Answer

Inability to feel the 10-g Semmes-Weinstein monofilament at one or more plantar sites indicates loss of protective sensation and high ulcer risk.

Question 3

A diabetic patient develops a painless, swollen, deformed ankle joint. X-ray shows fragmented bone and joint disorganization. What condition is this?

Accepted Answer

Charcot neuroarthropathy

Answer

Charcot neuroarthropathy (Charcot foot) presents as a painless, hot, swollen joint with bony destruction due to loss of protective sensation.

Question 4

Which HbA1c target is associated with the greatest reduction in microvascular complications in type 1 diabetes, per the DCCT trial?

Accepted Answer

Less than 7%

Answer

The DCCT trial demonstrated that intensive therapy targeting HbA1c below 7% reduced microvascular complications by approximately 50–76%.

Question 5

Autonomic neuropathy affecting the cardiovascular system in diabetes can manifest as which finding?

Accepted Answer

Resting tachycardia and orthostatic hypotension

Answer

Cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy typically presents as resting tachycardia, reduced heart rate variability, and orthostatic hypotension.

Certified Diabetes Educator Test Practice Test

Certified Diabetes Educator Test Practice Test

CDE Complications 2