DIABETES ALERT DAY

March 26, 2013

Diabetes
Diabetes occurs when the blood glucose (sugar) in the blood becomes too high. Glucose is the main source of energy for the bodys cells. Most of the food a person eats is converted into glucose (sugar) and used by the body for energy. The amount of glucose in the blood is controlled by a hormone called insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. Insulin is used to help glucose get into the cells of the body. Diabetes is a chronic condition characterized by the bodys inability to either produce insulin, or to use the insulin correctly, or both. When cells in the body cannot turn the glucose (sugar) in the bloodstream into energy, the glucose builds up and over time can damage vital organs of the body. The CDC reports that diabetes affects an estimated 18.8 million people in the United States, and 10.9 million are aged 65 yrs or older. Assisting your clients in the management of diabetes is crucial to their overall health and wellbeing. Some of the potential serious health-related complications associated with diabetes are: Kidney disease Heart and blood vessel disease Eye complications Nerve damage Stroke

Blood glucose monitoring is the main method to check a clients blood glucose level
The ADA recommends an insulindependent diabetic test their blood glucose (sugar) level at least 3 or more times a day or as advised by their doctor. Clients who take oral medication should follow their doctors order regarding the frequency of blood glucose monitoring.

Georgia Department of Human Services Division of Aging Community Care Services Program Telephone 1-866-55AGING Two Peachtree Street, N.W. Suite 33-263 Atlanta, Georgia 30303-3142

Diabetic clients should always have their blood glucose monitored

Blood Glucose Management

Your clients quality of life can greatly be impacted by the degree to which their blood glucose is managed. It is extremely important that you, as the care provider, have a basic understanding of diabetes, blood glucose levels and the oral medication or insulin that your client takes to manage their diabetes.
The American Diabetes Association recommends the following ranges that most adults with diabetes can use. More or less strict guidelines may be ordered by your clients physician.

Target Blood Glucose Levels Before meals 1 2 hours After Meals 70 130 mg/dl <180 mg/dl

Additional blood glucose testing is required if the client shows signs or symptoms of too high or too low blood glucose levels. Always seek medical attention! Insulin Type Rapid-acting Short-acting Intermediate acting Long-acting Name Humalog/lispro Novolog/aspart Onset 15-30 min. 10-20 min. Peak 30-90 40-50 2-4hrs 8 hrs None Duration 3-5hrs 3-5hrs 5-8hrs 12-16hrs 20-24hrs

Regular 30-60min Humulin R or Novolin R NPH 1-3hrs Humulin N or Novolin N Lantus/glargine 1 hour

Hypoglycemia (Low blood sugar)

Blood glucose levels 70 or below

It is important to learn the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia, and how you can quickly assist your client in the treatment of their low blood sugar.

Note: Clients who are taking rapid or short-acting insulin must eat shortly after taking their insulin to avoid hypoglycemia.

Symptoms

Symptoms
Shakiness Dizziness Sweaty Hunger Confusion Behavior changes Pale Skin Color Seizure

Hyperglycemia (High blood sugar)

Blood glucose levels >130

Caregivers must learn the signs and symptoms of hyperglycemia, so that treatment can begin immediately. Follow the physicians orders If blood glucose levels are above 240 mg/dl, seek medical assistance.

Thirst Frequent urination Nausea Fatigue Blurred Vision Headache Nervousness Confusion

Immediate Treatment Suggestions

4 oz of juice or regular soda 1 tablespoonHeadache of honey or corn syrup 1 cup skim or low fat milk Seizure 4 or 5 saltine crackers

Always follow physicians orders Retest blood glucose level within 15 minutes; if blood glucose level has not improved seek medical attention.

Untreated hyperglycemia could result in a Life-Threatening Emergency. Call 911.