Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Which of the following statements is true of diabetes?

1. To best conserve energy, people with diabetes should skip meals when they're not hungry

2. People with diabetes must be very careful about what they eat

3. People with diabetes must avoid exercise so that they do not burn too much glucose

4. Monitoring a diabetic resident's intake of protein is more important than monitoring his intake of carbohydrates

The correct answer is: People with diabetes must be very careful about what they eat

The statement that people with diabetes must be very careful about what they eat is correct because dietary management is a crucial aspect of diabetes care. Individuals with diabetes need to monitor their carbohydrate intake closely, as carbohydrates directly impact blood sugar levels. They must follow a balanced diet that contains appropriate amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats to help maintain stable blood glucose levels. Additionally, attention to portion sizes and the timing of meals can significantly affect glucose control. This careful dietary management can prevent complications such as hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) or hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), both of which can be serious and require immediate attention. In contrast, skipping meals is not advisable for people with diabetes, as it can lead to unstable blood glucose levels. Avoiding exercise is also incorrect; physical activity is essential and can actually help manage blood sugar levels when done appropriately. Lastly, while monitoring protein intake is important for overall dietary balance, carbohydrates have a more direct effect on blood sugar levels, making their monitoring a higher priority in diabetes management.