As the summer break draws to a close and the familiar excitement of a new school year approaches, it's important to consider the unique challenges that students with diabetes may face as they head back to the classroom. Balancing academics, extracurricular activities, and diabetes management can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies in place, it's entirely possible to have a successful and fulfilling academic year. Let's jump into those strategies.
Diabetes Medical Management Plan
In the United States, public school students with medical needs can submit a 504 plan to their school. This plan s a legal document that outlines accommodations and support services for students with disabilities in educational settings. It comes from Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance, including public schools. The purpose of is to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to education and are not subjected to discrimination due to their disabilities. This includes students with various medical conditions, such as diabetes, allergies, epilepsy, and more.
A 504 plan is NOT an IEP.
It is important to have a meeting with the school nurse to understand the school's policies and procedures for students with medical needs. Each individual student is different. Some students are more independent. Others, need more hands on assistance. With diabetes, it is important to assess the needs of the diabetic student in an effort to increase their independence as well as include them in this process. It is their medical plan after all.
The American Diabetes Association has a sample 504 plan on their website to use as a guide.
Electronic Devices
Over the years, diabetes technology has made wonderful strides. The only caveat is that now, devices like insulin pumps and glucometer increasingly resemble cellphones. Many schools have a zero cell phone policy.
Typically, the school nurse identifies the teachers and staff of students with plans like a 504. The plan should detail devices like insulin pumps, CGM's, and glucometers. However, sometimes these details are missed or overlooked.
It is important that all teachers involved in the education of an individual with diabetes be aware of these devices. At the beginning of the school year, parents should send out emails to these teachers and staff detailing any devices the student will be using. The American Diabetes Association has a card, I recommend, printing off and putting into the student's backpack, homework folder, student planner, etc. detailing the important of these electronic devices.
Supply Box
This is not your average supply box. Students with medical needs, like diabetes, should have a container with extra supplies for them at school. Always check with your school nurse for any school requirements regarding a supply box.
For diabetic supplies, a small clear box with student label is a great place to start. The contents of the supply box will vary based on your current regimen.
Extra insulin (if available)
Replacement pen needles, syringes, or pump supplies
Back up glucometer, lancets, test strips
Replacement Continuous Glucose Monitor
Alcohol Wipes
Low Blood Sugar Supplies:
Juice Box
Favorite Candy
Glucose Gel
Glucose Tablets
Protein Bar
Teamwork
Managing diabetes in a school setting involves a collaborative effort. From the student, the parents, to the school staff each members contributions create an environment for the student to thrive.
Parents or guardians provide critical insights into the student's medical history, preferences, and individualized care needs. Sharing information about blood sugar levels, insulin dosages, meal plans, and emergency protocols equips the school team with the necessary knowledge to address the student's health requirements.
A thorough diabetes treatment plan can be developed with the assistance of the student medical team. By taking into account elements like medication scheduling, blood sugar monitoring, and nutritional concerns, they make sure that the plan is in line with the medical needs of the student.
When it comes to helping diabetic students in school, teachers are crucial. They are frequently the first to spot symptoms of high or low blood sugar and can motivate pupils to stick to their management schedule. Additionally, teachers help with adjustments by permitting things like snack breaks and bathroom breaks.
Since school nurses are qualified to deliver insulin, check blood sugar levels, and deal with medical crises, they are important members of the diabetes care team. In order to guarantee that the student's care plan is constantly carried out and that any changes in health status are promptly handled, they collaborate closely with parents, medical experts, and instructors.
Understanding their own condition and taking charge of managing their diabetes is empowering for students. They develop their ability to identify symptoms, control insulin levels, and make wise food decisions. Students gain skills in responsibility and self-care that they can use throughout their lives by actively participating in their care and speaking up for their needs.
In the end, productive teamwork makes sure that the student's diabetes won't interfere with their ability to learn. The diabetes requires open communication, knowledge sharing, and teamwork to build a friendly and secure environment where the student may concentrate on their studies and successfully manage their health.
All the love,
Trisha RN, BSN
The Diabetic Diabetes Nurse
References
Help for Parents | ADA. (n.d.). Diabetes.org. Retrieved August 14, 2023, from https://diabetes.org/tools-support/know-your-rights/safe-at-school-state-laws/help-for-parents
IDF Kids. (n.d.). Kids.idf.org. https://kids.idf.org/kids-and-diabetes-in-schools/
School Resources. (n.d.). Beyond Type 1. Retrieved August 14, 2023, from https://beyondtype1.org/school/
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 | ADA. (n.d.). Diabetes.org. https://diabetes.org/tools-support/know-your-rights/section-504-rehabilitation-act-1973
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