Final answer:
Children with type 1 diabetes need insulin when their blood sugar is too high. They should consume fast-acting carbohydrates if their sugar is low. During illness, insulin should still be taken, hydration maintained, and blood sugar monitored more frequently.
Step-by-step explanation:
A child with type 1 diabetes will need to take insulin when their blood sugar is too high. This is because in type 1 diabetes, the pancreas cannot produce enough insulin, which is a hormone vital for regulating blood glucose levels. When glucose levels in the bloodstream rise, such as after eating, a "normal" body would respond by releasing insulin from the pancreas, allowing cells to absorb glucose and use it for energy. However, due to the autoimmune destruction of beta cells in the pancreas in those with type 1 diabetes, insulin is not produced adequately.
If the child's blood sugar is low, they should consume fast-acting carbohydrates like glucose tablets, fruit juice, or candy. Regular blood sugar monitoring is essential, and parents, caregivers, or the children themselves (if age-appropriate) should be trained in recognizing the signs of both low and high blood sugar levels and know how to respond.
When sick, it's crucial for a child with type 1 diabetes to continue taking insulin according to their healthcare provider's instructions. Illness can cause blood sugar levels to fluctuate more unpredictably. It's important to stay hydrated, monitor blood sugar more frequently, and sometimes adjust the insulin dosage as recommended by a healthcare professional.