In a child with type 1 diabetes experiencing an acute illness, which action should the nurse include in the plan of care?

In a child with type 1 diabetes experiencing an acute illness, which action should the nurse include in the plan of care?

• A. Restrict fluids to prevent hypoglycemia
• B. Encourage increased fluid intake
• C. Limit carbohydrates to zero
• D. Administer sugar-containing drinks to prevent dehydration

Answer: (B)

When a child with type 1 diabetes is ill, staying well hydrated is essential. Illness often brings fluid losses from fever, vomiting, and decreased intake, and high blood glucose can cause osmotic diuresis that further dehydrates. The plan should prioritize increasing fluids to replace these losses and maintain circulating volume, which helps protect kidney function and reduce the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. Offer small, frequent sips and use oral rehydration solutions when possible to restore electrolytes and fluids without causing large glucose spikes. Avoid restricting fluids, and avoid giving sugary drinks as the primary hydration source, since they can raise blood glucose and worsen dehydration. If fluids can’t be tolerated, or if there are warning signs like persistent vomiting, fever with poor intake, or signs of DKA (extreme irritability, dehydration, rapid breathing), seek medical care promptly.

When a child with type 1 diabetes is ill, staying well hydrated is essential. Illness often brings fluid losses from fever, vomiting, and decreased intake, and high blood glucose can cause osmotic diuresis that further dehydrates. The plan should prioritize increasing fluids to replace these losses and maintain circulating volume, which helps protect kidney function and reduce the risk of diabetic ketoacidosis. Offer small, frequent sips and use oral rehydration solutions when possible to restore electrolytes and fluids without causing large glucose spikes. Avoid restricting fluids, and avoid giving sugary drinks as the primary hydration source, since they can raise blood glucose and worsen dehydration. If fluids can’t be tolerated, or if there are warning signs like persistent vomiting, fever with poor intake, or signs of DKA (extreme irritability, dehydration, rapid breathing), seek medical care promptly.