Diabetes Plans

• Diabetes causes insufficient production and use of insulin by the pancreas.  It affects the metabolism of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
• Blood glucose testing is done periodically throughout the day.
• Type 1 Diabetics use insulin to help control their blood sugar.  
• Type 2 Diabetics often use a combination of diet, exercise, and oral medication.
• The most common problem seen in a student is hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and it can occur quickly.

Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)

Symptoms may include:       

• Hunger
• Lethargy, sleepiness, light-headedness
• Shakiness, faintness
• Fast heart beat, rapid breathing
• Personality change irritability, crying
• Headache, pale
• Inability to follow directions
• Cold, clammy skin, profuse sweating
• Unconsciousness, convulsions
•  

Hypoglycemia treatments might include:               

If student conscious:

• 4-6 Life savers
• 3-4 glucose tablets
• 4 oz juice
• 6 oz regular (not diet) soda

If student unconscious:

• Glucose gel or squeezable cake icing

Hyperglycemia (high blood sugar)

Symptoms may include:

• Fruity-smelling breath.
• Nausea and vomiting.
• Shortness of breath.
• Dry mouth.
• Weakness.
• Confusion.
• Coma.
• Abdominal pain.

Always send this child to the clinic with an escort!

*911 will always be called for an unconscious diabetic.