The nurse is planning a client care conference with the parents of a 3-year-old with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes mellitus. What is the priority outcome for the caregivers?

Question

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Management of type 1 diabetes mellitus requires understanding of blood sugar regulation. If the child becomes hypoglycemic or hyperglycemic, complications could develop. The priority for caregivers should be to focus on the child's safety. Managing the child's blood sugars should be the initial goal. (Option A) Dealing with a new diagnosis will require time. Although acquiring coping skills is important, this is more of a long-term goal. (Option C) Consistent menus, appropriate eating times, and adequate intake based on age are all important parts of meal planning. However, checking the child's blood sugars and keeping these stable with the correct insulin dose is the priority. (Option D) Frequent follow-up visits are important to prevent long-term complications of diabetes. However, preventing hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia at home is the priority. Educational objective: Initial teaching of the parents of a child with newly diagnosed type 1 diabetes should focus on basic safety and survival skills, including proper insulin administration and adequate monitoring of blood sugars. Information should be introduced slowly, repeated often, and given based on the child's developmental age.

The Nurse Is Planning a Client Care Conference with the Parents