Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

What is the ultimate goal of Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES)?

1. Optimal glycemic control

2. Imparting knowledge and skills needed to make important lifestyle changes

3. Reduction of diabetes-related complications

4. Reduced incidence and cost of diabetes through improved management

The correct answer is: Imparting knowledge and skills needed to make important lifestyle changes

The ultimate goal of Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) is to equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence they need to effectively manage their diabetes on a day-to-day basis. By focusing on imparting knowledge and skills necessary for making informed lifestyle changes, DSMES enables patients to understand their condition better, recognize the importance of self-care, and implement strategies to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This educational approach helps individuals set realistic goals, develop problem-solving skills, and learn how to monitor their health effectively. It encourages active participation, which is critical since personal accountability plays a significant role in the management of diabetes. With this foundation, individuals are more likely to engage in behaviors that lead to improved health outcomes, thereby naturally progressing towards optimal glycemic control, a reduction in complications, and a more efficient management of healthcare costs. The correct answer highlights that the core of DSMES revolves around empowering patients rather than merely focusing on the outcomes of glycemic control or cost reduction.