Business Services Organisation
An overview of diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a serious chronic condition where blood glucose levels are too high. Commonly this is due to an autoimmune response, whereby the body destroys the Beta cells of the pancreas resulting in an absence of insulin. Insulin therapy is therefore needed to lower glucose levels. This is partly achieved by enabling blood glucose to enter the cells of the body. Managing this condition is challenging. Individuals, their carers and specialist diabetes team try to balance insulin therapy, carbohydrate counting, exercise and other variables to maintain their glucose levels within target range.
How many children have diabetes?
Type 1 diabetes accounts for 90% of all cases in paediatrics. Diagnosis rates in Northern Ireland have increased in the last decade. Within the UK, around 30,000 children have diabetes. The amount of individuals diagnosed has increased by 6% per year, especially in the younger age groups.
What people will get out of the programme?
You will get the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skillset required to safely and effectively care for infants and children with type 1 diabetes.
Identify key anatomy and explain the physiological differences between type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Through simulated practice, apply management principles of hypoglycaemia and hyperglycaemia.
References:
(RCPCH 2021; Diabetes UK n.d).