Question

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus

Susan is an 8-year-old girl who has been brought to her pediatrician by her mother for a weight loss of 5 pounds over the past 2 months, despite an increased food intake.

Subjective Data

Susan complains of thirst, hunger, and frequent voiding.

Objective Data

Today’s weight: 25 kg

Weight from a physical examination 6 months ago: 27.3 kg

Finger stick glucose: 325

Hemoglobin A1c: 9.1

Urinalysis: glycosuria

pH: 7.34

Father was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at age 8 years.

Will Susan require hospitalization?

Susan plays after-school sports; will she have to stop these activities?

What actions should the nurse take in this situation? Prioritize the actions?

Answer 1

Susan May require hospitalisation as she has to be managed with insulin therapy along with diet and exercise.She has to be monitored continuously as she May develop hypoglycemia.

She has to engage in physical activities which eventually help her to lower her blood-glucose levels.She should be encouraged to continue playing school sports.

Nurses actions has to be focused on

1. Risk for developing hypoglycemia related to insulin injections and other diabetic management.
2. Risk for impaired skin integrity related to slow healing process and decreased circulation.
3. Risk for infection related to elevated glucose levels.
4. Deficient knowledge related to complications of hypoglycemia and. Hyperglycemia.
5. Fluid volume deficit related to polyurea .