What should a nurse teach a school-age child and their parents about managing diabetes mellitus during illness?

Managing diabetes mellitus during illness requires careful attention to fluid intake, as illness can lead to dehydration. When a child with diabetes is ill, they may experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or increased blood glucose levels due to stress and infection. In these situations, ensuring adequate hydration is crucial to help prevent the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis and maintain overall health.

Increasing fluid intake helps to maintain blood volume and allows for better kidney function, which is essential in the excretion of excess glucose through urine. Additionally, good hydration can assist in preventing hyperglycemia and can help to mitigate some of the metabolic stress that illness places on the body.

In contrast, increasing protein or carbohydrates during illness may not be beneficial; while carbohydrates provide energy, the focus during illness should be on hydration and monitoring blood glucose levels. Decreasing insulin dosage is also not advisable without medical guidance, as this could lead to poor metabolic control and even diabetic ketoacidosis. It is important that caregivers monitor blood glucose closely and communicate with healthcare providers about any necessary adjustments to diabetes management during periods of illness.