Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

For how long should a person using insulin monitor for hypoglycemia after intense exercise?

1. Up to 24 hours

2. Up to 8 hours

3. Up to 4 hours

4. Up to 2 hours

The correct answer is: Up to 24 hours

The correct answer is that a person using insulin should monitor for hypoglycemia after intense exercise for up to 24 hours. This extended monitoring period is important due to several physiological factors that can affect blood glucose levels following intense physical activity. During and after exercise, the body undergoes various hormonal and metabolic changes that can lead to increased insulin sensitivity and an enhanced uptake of glucose by the muscles. After a significant workout, the risk of delayed hypoglycemia can persist, especially for those who use insulin or medications that increase insulin secretion. Some individuals may experience hypoglycemic events many hours after exercise, particularly if they have utilized a substantial amount of glucose during their workout or if they have injected insulin within a close timeframe to their activity. Therefore, healthcare providers often recommend that individuals continue to monitor their blood glucose levels for an extended period, sometimes recommending checks for up to 24 hours, to identify potential hypoglycemic episodes in a timely manner. Monitoring for a shorter duration, like 2, 4, or 8 hours, may not be sufficient, particularly after very intense or prolonged exercise, as hypoglycemia can occur beyond those time frames. Understanding this risk helps ensure safety and effective diabetes management.