National Registry of Certified Medical Examiners (NRCME) DOT Practice Exam

At what level is HgbA1C considered an indicator of poor control of diabetes?

1. 7%

2. 10%

3. 12%

4. 13%

The correct answer is: 10%

An HgbA1C level of 10% is generally recognized as an indicator of poor control of diabetes. This percentage reflects an average blood glucose level over the past two to three months. When HgbA1C is at or above this level, it suggests that the individual's blood sugar levels have been consistently high, increasing the risk of diabetes-related complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, and retinopathy. A level of 7% is often considered the target for good diabetes control in many guidelines. Levels above 10% indicate that management strategies may need to be reevaluated and adjusted to achieve better control. Levels like 12% and 13% further signify severe uncontrolled diabetes and may prompt more immediate intervention and monitoring. Thus, while all of these levels indicate some degree of poor control, 10% serves as a critical threshold that raises concern for potential health challenges associated with poorly managed diabetes.