Type 1 Diabetes in Maternal and Child Nursing

Summary:

Type 1 diabetes mellitus, once referred to as juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little or no insulin. The pancreas has dual functions: aiding digestion and regulating blood sugar. Insulin’s primary role is to transport glucose into cells, where it is converted into energy (ATP). In the absence of sufficient insulin, glucose remains in the blood, leading to hyperglycemia, the defining characteristic of type 1 diabetes. Unlike type 2 diabetes, where insulin is produced but not effectively used, type 1 diabetes results from an autoimmune attack on the insulin-producing beta cells of the pancreas. Risk factors include family history, genetics, geography, age, vitamin D deficiency, and consumption of cow’s milk during infancy. Key symptoms include excessive thirst (polydipsia), frequent urination (polyuria), increased hunger (polyphagia), unintended weight loss, irritability, fatigue, and weakness. Diagnosis can be done through various tests like fasting plasma glucose (FPG) test, oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), random blood glucose test, and Hemoglobin A1C. Management involves daily insulin injections (using syringes, injector pens, or insulin pumps), dietary intake regulation, regular blood sugar monitoring, a healthy diet, and exercise. Complications include heart and blood vessel disease, neuropathy, nephropathy, and eye and foot damage. Although the prognosis allows for a relatively normal lifestyle, the risk of complications is significant but can be greatly reduced with strict glucose control.

Excerpt:

Type 1 Diabetes in Maternal and Child Nursing

What is the role of the pancreas?

The pancreas has two main functions: an exocrine function that helps digestion and an endocrine function that regulates blood sugar >>> Insulin.

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Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Type 1 diabetes mellitus, once known as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a chronic
condition in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin.

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus >>> The pancreas produces insulin, but the body cannot use it effectively.