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Did you know that you spend roughly one-third of your waking hours in school? At least. And that's not counting before- and after-school activities.
Handling diabetes during school time can be one of your biggest challenges. And how you handle it can make all the difference in whether your experience is good or not so good.
Here are some tips from former Diabetes Educator of the Year Sherry Trunnel, a registered nurse and certified diabetes educator at Blank Children's Hospital, Des Moines, Iowa:
- Stay Supplied. Make sure you have all the supplies you need at school. Keep strips in their original vials and not in a plastic baggie or other container, which can cause them to deteriorate. "If you don't have a second meter to leave at school, talk to your educator," Sherry says. Sometimes, through special offers, you can get one.
- Give Kits for Low Blood Sugar and Emergency to Your School. Include items you're most comfortable using¿like glucose tabs or juice boxes¿and complex carbohydrates, such as packets of cheese and crackers. Your parents should include a written note from your physician telling when and how to give glucagon. At least one person at the school should be able to administrate it.
- Wear Your Medical I.D. These are especially important for activities outside of school, where people might not be aware that you have diabetes. Wear a necklace under your shirt if you are self-conscious, or try a Medic Alert ankle bracelet!
- Pre-Plan for School Parties. Discuss your options with your doctor and parents beforehand. "Remember that you always have choices," says Sherry.
- Get Your Parents and Teachers Together. In addition to the other topics here, they should discuss field trips, strenuous activity or exercise, when your parents should be contacted, and any other special needs.
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