A nurse is providing teaching to a school-age child who has a new diagnosis of type 1 diabetes mellitus. Which of the following statements by the child indicates an understanding of the teaching?
A.
“I can store unopened bottles of insulin in the freezer.
B.
I should not take my regular insulin when I am sick.”
C.
“My morning blood glucose should be between 90 and 130.
D.
I should eat a snack half an hour before playing soccer
The Correct answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. “My morning blood glucose should be between 90 and 130.”
Explanation
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic condition characterized by the autoimmune destruction of pancreatic beta cells, which leads to insulin deficiency. Proper management of T1DM requires adherence to specific guidelines for insulin administration, blood glucose monitoring, and lifestyle adjustments. Understanding these aspects is crucial for managing the condition effectively.
Analysis of Each Option:
A. “I can store unopened bottles of insulin in the freezer.”
- Incorrect: Insulin should not be stored in the freezer. Freezing insulin can cause it to become ineffective and can damage its chemical structure. Unopened bottles of insulin should be stored in the refrigerator, ideally at temperatures between 36°F and 46°F (2°C to 8°C). This storage condition helps maintain the insulin’s potency until it is needed.
B. “I should not take my regular insulin when I am sick.”
- Incorrect: This statement is misleading. It is crucial for individuals with type 1 diabetes to continue taking insulin as prescribed even when they are sick. Illness can cause blood glucose levels to rise due to increased stress hormones and potentially reduced insulin sensitivity. Therefore, proper insulin administration is essential to manage blood glucose levels and avoid complications, such as diabetic ketoacidosis.
C. “My morning blood glucose should be between 90 and 130.”
- Correct: This statement reflects an accurate target range for blood glucose levels in children with type 1 diabetes, as recommended by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Maintaining fasting blood glucose levels between 90 and 130 mg/dL helps reduce the risk of both hyperglycemia (high blood glucose) and hypoglycemia (low blood glucose), contributing to better overall diabetes control.
D. “I should eat a snack half an hour before playing soccer.”
- Incorrect: While it is often necessary for children with type 1 diabetes to manage their blood glucose levels during physical activity, this statement is not universally correct. The need for a pre-exercise snack depends on individual blood glucose levels, insulin regimen, and duration/intensity of the activity. It is essential to monitor blood glucose levels and adjust carbohydrate intake or insulin dosing based on personalized guidance from a healthcare provider.
In summary, option C correctly reflects the expected target range for fasting blood glucose levels in children with type 1 diabetes, indicating an understanding of diabetes management principles.