Question

Before a newly diagnosed patient with Type 1 diabetes discharges, what instructions should be taught to the patient and caregivers?

Answer 1

The following discharge instructions has to be given to the patient and family members are

• Diet:The first step to effectively manage blood glucose
  • Eat on time ,do not skip,overeat or alter meals because this can alter blood glucose generally lead to hyperglycemia or hypoglycemia
  • Avoid refined foods ,white sugar ,high carbohydrates, candy ,icecream, etc.,
  • Follow a complex carbohydrate with balanced nutrition in diet
  • Encourage to eat more vegetables and fruits as prescribed (guava,apple, papaya )
• Medication:These patients will not be able to produce insulin so insulin medication is order for them.
  • Take this injection 10 to 15 minutes before food and should eat within half an hour otherwise can lead to hypoglycemia
  • Monitor for adverse effects
  • Monitor blood glucose level periodically or whenever necessary or showing abnormal signs.
  • Circulate the injection site to avoid lipodystrophy
  • Administer insulin dose as per order
• Excercises:This is very important to regulate blood glucose. A walk of half an hour in the morning should be made routine and strict.
• Foot care:
  • Wear proper footware
  • Avoid moisturizing in between the toes
  • Cut the nails straight once a week
  • Inspect daily for any abnormalities in the foot and get medical help if present
• Follow up
  • Periodic and regular follow up as per order to monitor for effectiveness of treatment, adverse effects ,drug dose changes ,etc.,
• General
  • Vision check up once in a year or in about six months in case of any complications
  • Practice hygiene as they are more prone for injection
  • Take flu vaccines, TT to prevent infect as oer order of the provider.