Issues in the care of infants and toddlers with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus.
Infants and children in the preschool age group who have insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus present a unique set of problems to the health care provider and to their families. These management issues include difficulty in achieving maximal metabolic control; the limited ability of the child to communicate feelings and needs; a significant financial burden to many young families; and the increased family stress and altered psychodynamics seen in families with very young children with chronic illnesses. The lability of diet, exercise, emotions, and overall life-style seen in this age group exacerbates each of these problems markedly. This paper addresses the challenges that these children present; discusses the issues and controversies; and describes how the Diabetes Clinic at Michigan State University uses a combination of methodologies and disciplines to deal with these problem areas.
Kushion
W
W
Salisbury
P J
PJ
Seitz
K W
KW
Wilson
B E
BE
D002675:Child, Preschool; D003922:Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing / Q000628:therapy*; D005190:Family / Q000523:psychology; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D010044:Outpatient Clinics, Hospital; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration*