Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

Who should NOT be screened for diabetes mellitus?

1. An obese Hispanic man

2. A middle-aged Black woman with a family history of diabetes

3. A woman who delivered a large infant

4. A 30-year-old White man with hypertension

The correct answer is: A 30-year-old White man with hypertension

Screening for diabetes mellitus is based on specific risk factors and population characteristics. In this case, the individual who should not be screened for diabetes is a 30-year-old White man with hypertension. While hypertension is a risk factor for diabetes, the critical aspect here is the individual’s age and lack of other significant risk factors. Guidelines typically recommend screening for diabetes in adults starting at age 45 or earlier in those with risk factors such as obesity, family history, or previous gestational diabetes. Age plays a vital role because younger individuals, particularly those under 35, who do not have additional risk factors are generally at a lower risk for developing type 2 diabetes. In contrast, the other scenarios involve individuals with higher risk profiles: the obese Hispanic man and the middle-aged Black woman both have obesity and family history, which are significant indicators for diabetes screening. Meanwhile, the woman who delivered a large infant likely experienced gestational diabetes, making her at risk for type 2 diabetes in the future.