Diabetes Flashcards
Main characteristics of hyperglycemia
Polydipsia
Polyphagia
Polyuria
What is the goal of diabetes treatment?
Management of the disease and adherence to the prescribed regimen
Hemoglobin A1C target ranges
7.5%-8.5% less than 6 years old
Less than 8% for 6-12 years old
Less than 7.5% 12 and older
Cause of T1DM
Progressive autoimmune based destruction of beta cells
“Insulin-dependent”
T1DM appearance
Thin
Weight loss
Lethargic
Ketonuria
Fruity breath
DKA Characteristics
Serum glucose 250
Large amounts of ketonuria
N&V, abdominal pain, dehydration
Kussmaul’s respirations
Fruity breath (acetone odor to breath)
T2DM cause
Inadequate production of insulin by the body or lack of sensitivity to the insulin being produced
“Insulin resistant”
Characteristics of HHNKS
Hyperglycemia >600
Absence of ketones
Plasma hyperosmolarity: high concentration of sodium, glucose, etc.
dehydration
Altered mental status
HHNKS treatment
Isotonic IV fluids (0.9% NS) replacement
Infusion of regular insulin via an infusion pump until blood glucose stabilizes at 250mg/dl
Females with diabetes are more likely to experience
Frequent yeast infections
Diabetes sick days interventions
Keep taking insulin
Monitor BG more frequently (every 3-4 hours)
Test urine for ketones
Watch for signs or hyperglycemia
Why teach importance of an exercise regimen with diabetic patients?
Exercise decreases blood glucose levels
Nursing interventions for diabetic patients (teaching hypo/hyper glycemia)
Teach to always check BG if not feeling well
S/s can be confusing
Hypoglycemia S/S
Sudden onset “Cold and clammy give some candy”
Hunger, lightheadedness, shakiness
Slurred speech
Blurred vision
Tachycardia
Hypoglycemia treatment
Patient must be awake and alert or risk of aspiration
3-4 glucose tabs or 1 tube of glucose gel
3-5 pieces of hard candy (NOT chocolate)
1/2 cup (4oz) juice or regular soda
Eat 15 grams of carbohydrates
Hyperglycemia S/S
Slower onset “High and dry, sugar high”
Extreme thirst, N&V
Skin is warm, dry, flushed
Polyuria (early)/Oliguria (late)
Kussmauls respirations (rapid, deep)
Fruity acetone breath (due to ketones)
Recurrent vaginal yeast infections (often seen with T2DM)
What to do before treating diabetics
Test glucose levels
What is the preferred site for day to day injections?
Abdomen
Rotate sites
Avoid 2 inches near umbilicus
Diabetes need to know facts
Always allow the caregiver and child to provide “teach back” when providing education
On sick days, monitor BG carefully, keep taking insulin, and test urine for ketones
Carb consistent diet is recommended
