USC Westside Center for Diabetes | December 2001 Newsletter

INSIDE THIS ISSUE


		The Results Are In: Therapies to prevent type 2 diabetes compared.

		Pump Update: Minimed Paradigm release postponed, and Disetronic introduces a new infusion set.

		Sugar: Have your fruitcake and eat it too.

		Kids with Diabetes: Care at school is critical to a healthy life, now and later.

		Changing Rules: FAA issues guidelines for flying with diabetes supplies.

		Prevention: USC physician seeks causes and ways to head off diabetes.

Points of Interest


		Handling stress

		Cholesterol-lowering drugs

		Concern Over Atkins Diet

		Thyroid Hormone Replacement Therapy

		Diabetes... an Aspirin a Day

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	Kids' Care at School Critical to Good Health - By Francine Kaufman, MD Appropriate diabetes care in school and daycare centers is important for children's immediate safety, long-term wellbeing and optimal academic performance. The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial showed that improved blood glucose control decreases the risk of diabetes complications later. To achieve control, a child must monitor blood glucose frequently, follow a meal plan and take medications. Children usually take insulin through injections or a pump. Physical activity and nutrition also affect blood glucose levels. For appropriate care of the student with diabetes, school and day care staff must understand diabetes and be trained in its management—as well as in treatment of diabetes emergencies. Yet studies have shown that most school personnel don't adequately understand diabetes, and that parents of children with diabetes lack confidence in their teacher's ability to manage diabetes effectively. Consequently, diabetes education must be targeted toward daycare providers, teachers and others including administrators, coaches, school nurses, health aides, bus drivers and secretaries. The care of a child in school or daycare revolves around the "diabetes health care plan." This individualized plan should be developed by the parent/guardian, the student's diabetes care team and the school or day care provider. It delineates responsibilities assumed by parents or guardians, school personnel and the student. It also should also specify instructions for the following: Blood glucose monitoring, including the frequency and circumstances requiring testing. Insulin administration (if necessary), including doses and injection times prescribed for specific blood glucose values and the storage of insulin. Meals and snacks, including food content, amounts and timing. Symptoms and treatment of low blood glucose, including the administration of glucagons if recommended by the student's treating physician. Symptoms and treatment of high blood glucose. Ketone testing and appropriate actions to take for abnormal ketone levels, if required by the student's health care provider.
	Photos By Mark Harmel ©2001/2002 USC. All Rights Reserved

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