Type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes is a tremendously challenging and complex disease for children and families to manage. Advances in research are constantly bringing about changes in therapies and treatments with the hope of improving the quality of life for youth with type 1 diabetes and their families. Accurate diagnosis, education, treatment, and referral to a certified diabetes educator, endocrinologist, dietitian, social worker, and psychologist are needed to provide the child with the skills necessary to manage diabetes over a lifetime. Nurses and nurse practitioners must be informed of the most current treatments and research available for their patients so that they can encourage their patients to live full and healthy lives.