Take Charge
any mild or moderate symptoms of hyper- glycemia. With signs of hyperglycemia, the diabetes treatment plan needs to be adjusted as the child may need additional insulin, but if he has any symptoms of se- vere hyperglycemia, you should call 911. If children test their sugar as scheduled and comply with carbohydrate counting and insulin administration, glucose control should stay within their target range. Complications of diabetes can be
prevented by controlling and managing blood glucose levels. With poor glucose control, there is the potential for complica- tions with kidneys, eyes, damage to the nerves of the arms and legs and elevated cholesterol and blood pressure. Regular eye exams, urine and blood tests and blood pressure screenings should be part of routine care. Children with elevated blood pressure should reduce sodium intake, have low-fat dairy products and have their weight and BMI monitored. In addition, if indicated, you should encour- age weight loss and an increase in physi- cal activity.
When children are newly diagnosed with diabetes, they are usually hospital- ized. Diabetic teaching involving both the child and family begins immediately. De- pending upon their age, they are taught how to test their sugar and how to admin- ister insulin. As they mature, they learn all about calculating insulin based on their blood glucose levels and how to plan their meals and snacks. Children are very adaptable and, with
the right teaching and support, diabetic management becomes a part of their everyday routine and they can participate in all activities. There are times when children rebel and become frustrated. As parents, we have to be ready to provide
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whatever assistance they need and moni- tor their adherence to their diabetic treat- ment plan to prevent short- and long-term complications. The best thing we can do for our chil-
dren is to recognize their special interests, talents and strengths and provide venues to showcase how special they are.
Sheryl Zang, EdD, FNP, CNS-BC, is an Associate Professor at Downstate Medical Center, College of Nursing. A nurse for 38 years, she is presently running groups for diabetic children and teens.
The best thing we can do for our kids is to recognize their special
interests, talents and strengths
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