NHA Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA)Clinical Patient CareMedium
A medical assistant is reinforcing teaching with a patient about managing their type 2 diabetes. The patient asks, 'What is a normal blood glucose level I should aim for before meals?' The MA should inform the patient that a typical pre-meal blood glucose target is:
- ABelow 70 mg/dL
- B140-180 mg/dL
- CAbove 200 mg/dL
- D70-130 mg/dL
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. 70-130 mg/dL
According to general guidelines for adults with diabetes, a target pre-meal blood glucose level is typically between 70-130 mg/dL. This range helps manage blood sugar without causing hypoglycemia.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Below 70 mg/dL indicates hypoglycemia, which is too low and dangerous.
- B. 140-180 mg/dL is typically the target for post-meal (1-2 hours after) or bedtime, not pre-meal.
- C. Above 200 mg/dL indicates hyperglycemia, which is too high and harmful over time.
Diabetes Blood Glucose Targets
Blood glucose targets for individuals with diabetes vary but generally aim for specific ranges before meals, after meals, and at bedtime to prevent complications.
- Pre-meal: 70-130 mg/dL.
- 1-2 hours post-meal: <180 mg/dL.
- Individualized targets based on age, comorbidities.
- Regular monitoring is crucial.
Memory trick: Seventy-One Thirty, Pre-Meal's Worthy