Diabetes self care and self management

Question 1

What is the definition of self management?

Answer 1

The development of skills to manage a condition

Question 2

What is the definition of self care?

Answer 2

Necessary human regulation which is performed on a day to day basis

Question 3

What is the treatment for type 1 diabetes?

Answer 3

Insulin

Question 4

What is the treatment for type 2 diabetes? (3)

Answer 4

Diet change
Metformin/suphonylurea
Insulin

Question 5

What is the general advice on the use of insulin? (3)

Answer 5

Disposal of old insulin (>28 days)
Patient’s responsibility to ensure they don’t run out
Communicate with hospital staff who to administer insulin

Question 6

What is the advice on injecting insulin? (4)

Answer 6

Check injection sites regularly
Injections into arms should be used in caution as it has a faster onset of action
Rotate injection site to avoid lipohypertrophy
Remove needle after every injection

Question 7

What is the advice on storage of insulin? (3)

Answer 7

Unopened insulin can be stored at room temperature
Open insulin must be used within 28 days
Insulins intended for future use myst be kept in the fridge between 2 and 8 degrees

Question 8

What OTC medication should be avoided for diabetics?

Answer 8

NSAIDs

Corn/Callous remedies

Question 9

What are sick day rules?

Answer 9

Guidelines for diabetics concerning days when they are ill as it increases insulin requirements

Question 10

What is the advice concerning sick day rules?

Answer 10

Drink plenty of non sugary fluids to avoid dehydration

If the patient begins to vomit then seek medical advice

Question 11

What advice should be given to diabetics who drive? (3)

Answer 11

Notify DVLA
Avoid hypos
Check blood glucose before and at 2 hour intervals

Question 12

What travel advice should be given to diabetics?

Answer 12

Take twice the amount of normal medication required