Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) Practice Exam

Which of the following is not a common fear associated with insulin therapy?

1. Nausea and subsequent weight loss

2. Worsening of diabetes

3. Needles

4. Hypoglycemia

The correct answer is: Nausea and subsequent weight loss

The common fears associated with insulin therapy typically revolve around experiences and consequences directly related to living with diabetes. Fear of needles is prevalent due to the discomfort and anxiety associated with injections. Hypoglycemia is another major concern because it can lead to serious health issues, including confusion and loss of consciousness if blood sugar levels drop too low. Worsening of diabetes is also a fear many patients may harbor, often stemming from concerns about dependence on insulin or the feeling of losing control over their condition. However, the fear of experiencing nausea and subsequent weight loss isn't typically associated with insulin therapy itself. While weight changes can occur with diabetes management, the primary apprehensions surrounding insulin do not usually involve nausea as a direct fear of the medication. Instead, individuals may fear potential weight gain due to insulin therapy or its role in managing blood glucose. Thus, the option regarding nausea and weight loss does not align with the predominant fears experienced by patients commencing insulin therapy.