Diabetes Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield Diabetes facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. Diabetes can lead to all of the following, with the exception of: → Tinnitus
2. In Diabetes practice, what is the FIRST step when a safety hazard is identified in the workplace? → Immediately secure the area and report the hazard
3. All of the following may result in hyperinsulinemia, with the exception of: → Type 1 diabetes
4. Except for one of the following problems, untreated hyperglycemia can cause: → Vitiligo
5. Which feature of a hybrid closed-loop insulin delivery system automatically adjusts insulin delivery? → Algorithm that responds to CGM readings
6. What is the first step in evaluating a patient with suspected diabetes? → Assess the patient's medical history and risk factors
7. The blood gases of a patient show diabetic acidosis. The nurse should prepare for: → Decreased HCO3
8. What is the value of continuing education in exercise and activity for Diabetes professionals? → It keeps professionals current with evolving standards and practices
9. What is the primary mechanism by which pregnancy causes insulin resistance? → Secretion of placental hormones such as human placental lactogen
10. Diabetic retinopathy is the leading cause of which serious outcome in U.S. adults aged 20-74? → New cases of blindness
11. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) principle applies to ALL Diabetes certified professionals regardless of their specific role? → PPE must be properly fitted, maintained, and replaced as needed
12. In Diabetes practice, what is the best approach to quality improvement in nutrition and diet? → Use data-driven methods with measurable outcomes
13. In Diabetes practice, what is the best approach to quality improvement in type 1 diabetes? → Use data-driven methods with measurable outcomes
14. Which glucose alert threshold on a CGM is used to warn a patient of an impending low before it occurs? → Predictive low glucose alert
15. What is the first-line recommended screening test for diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy)? → Urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR)
16. Which standard of practice is MOST important for ensuring quality in Medical Nutrition Therapy? → Following evidence-based protocols while adapting to specific circumstances
17. What is the MOST effective way for new Diabetes professionals to build competency in their field? → Combining formal education, mentored practice, and ongoing professional development
18. What does the acronym 'AGP' refer to in CGM reporting? → Ambulatory Glucose Profile
19. How can educators help patients overcome diabetes-related misconceptions? → By addressing misconceptions and providing clear information
20. In pump therapy, what is a 'correction bolus' (also called a supplemental bolus)? → Extra insulin given to bring high glucose back to target
21. Which of the following is a common complication of poorly controlled diabetes? → Peripheral neuropathy
22. In Oral & Injectable Medications, what is the FIRST step a Diabetes Education Certification professional should take when encountering a new case or situation? → Conduct a comprehensive assessment and gather all relevant information
23. Which approach to insulin therapy is considered best practice in current Diabetes standards? → Evidence-based, individualized interventions
24. What is the value of continuing education in type 2 diabetes for Diabetes professionals? → It keeps professionals current with evolving standards and practices
25. What role does collaboration play in type 1 diabetes for Diabetes professionals? → It enhances outcomes through diverse perspectives and shared expertise
26. Approximately what percentage of people with diabetes experience comorbid depression? → 15-25%
27. Which pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder is significantly more common in women with gestational diabetes? → Preeclampsia
28. What is the recommended target blood pressure for most adults with diabetes to reduce the risk of cardiovascular and renal complications? → Less than 130/80 mmHg
29. How does hyperosmolar hyperglycemic state (HHS) differ from diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)? → HHS is characterized by extreme hyperglycemia with minimal to no ketosis
30. What is the importance of maintaining patient confidentiality in diabetes education? → It helps ensure that personal health information remains private