The nurse has been providing care for the past month to a 7-year-old client recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus. Initially, the family seemed devastated about the diagnosis and the client's parent stated, "Our lives will never be the same." Which statement made by the parent indicates that nursing interventions and education have been effective?

Question

The nurse has been providing care for the past month to a 7-year-old client recently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus.  Initially, the family seemed devastated about the diagnosis and the client's parent stated, "Our lives will never be the same."  Which statement made by the parent indicates that nursing interventions and education have been effective?

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Parents experience a variety of emotions when a child is diagnosed with a chronic illness (eg, diabetes mellitus). Reactions include shock, denial, helplessness, anger, fear, anxiety, and often guilt about perceived contribution or failure to prevent the development of the disease. Parents' emotional response, adaptation, and coping strategies impact the child's perception of self and ability to manage the disease. In providing diabetes education, the nurse should emphasize that with planning and preparation, diabetes can be managed and controlled and the child can resume regular day-to-day activities and have an independent life (Option C). (Option A) Clients with diabetes can participate in a wide variety of sports and should continue pursuing age-appropriate physical activities. (Option B) The diagnosis and management of diabetes in a child can affect the whole family; however, the word "sacrifice" suggests that the parent is feeling victimized by the disease. (Option D) Nutritional management of diabetes does not require special foods. Nutrition education should emphasize healthy food choices, consistent amounts of carbohydrates, and a balance of food choices, with insulin and exercise for blood glucose control. Educational objective: The diagnosis of a chronic illness (eg, diabetes) in a child will have an impact on the entire family. When parents see themselves and the child as capable of being independent and in control of the disease, there is an increased likelihood that the disease will be managed and controlled and the child can have an independent life.

The Nurse Has Been Providing Care for the Past Month