Question 1

Which of the following best describes the primary function of insulin in glucose metabolism?

Accepted Answer

Promotes the uptake of glucose by cells, lowering blood glucose levels

Question 2

A patient presents with a fasting blood glucose level of 130 mg/dL. According to the diagnostic criteria, which of the following best describes this result?

Accepted Answer

Prediabetes

Question 3

Which hormone is released from pancreatic alpha cells in response to hypoglycemia and acts to increase blood glucose levels?

Accepted Answer

Glucagon

Question 4

A 45-year-old obese patient with a BMI of 32, hypertension, and elevated triglycerides is most likely to be diagnosed with which of the following conditions?

Accepted Answer

Metabolic syndrome

Question 5

Which of the following laboratory findings is diagnostic for diabetes mellitus according to the American Diabetes Association?

Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin A1c $$\u003e 6.5\%$$

Question 6

A patient with type 1 diabetes is found unconscious with a blood glucose of 40 mg/dL. What is the most appropriate immediate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Administer intravenous dextrose

Question 7

Which of the following is a common side effect of metformin that requires patient education?

Accepted Answer

Lactic acidosis

Question 8

A patient with diabetes is started on a thiazolidinedione (TZD). Which comorbidity would be a contraindication for this medication?

Accepted Answer

Symptomatic heart failure

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why patients with diabetes are at increased risk for infections?

Accepted Answer

Hyperglycemia inhibits gas exchange in tissues and promotes microorganism growth

Question 10

A patient with type 2 diabetes is prescribed an SGLT2 inhibitor. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor for?

Accepted Answer

Genital yeast infection

Question 11

A 60-year-old patient with poorly controlled type 2 diabetes presents with confusion, blood glucose of 700 mg/dL, and no significant ketones. Which complication is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Hyperglycemic hyperosmolar state (HHS)

Question 12

Which of the following is the best explanation for why insulin should not be injected into the same site repeatedly?

Accepted Answer

It can cause lipodystrophy, affecting insulin absorption

Question 13

A patient with type 1 diabetes is planning to exercise. Which of the following is the best advice to prevent hypoglycemia?

Accepted Answer

Consume additional carbohydrates before and during exercise if needed

Question 14

Which of the following is a microvascular complication of diabetes mellitus?

Accepted Answer

Diabetic nephropathy

Question 15

A patient with diabetes is found to have albuminuria and a decreased glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Which intervention is most appropriate to slow the progression of nephropathy?

Accepted Answer

Tight glycemic and blood pressure control

Question 16

Which of the following best describes the pathophysiology of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)?

Accepted Answer

Lack of insulin causes fat breakdown, resulting in ketone production and metabolic acidosis

Question 17

A patient with diabetes is being educated about foot care. Which of the following instructions is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Inspect feet daily for blisters, redness, or swelling

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why the central nervous system (CNS) is particularly vulnerable to hypoglycemia?

Accepted Answer

The CNS relies almost exclusively on glucose for energy and cannot store it

Question 19

A patient with type 2 diabetes is prescribed a GLP-1 agonist. Which of the following is a potential benefit of this medication?

Accepted Answer

Weight loss and improved beta-cell function

Question 20

A patient with diabetes is admitted for surgery. Which of the following perioperative management strategies is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Switch to intermediate-acting insulin 1-2 days prior to surgery

Diabetes Mellitus: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Management

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