NURSING CARE IN CHILDREN WITH TYPE 1 DIABETES MELLITUS

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is one of the most common chronic endocrine disorders affecting children and adolescents worldwide. The disease develops as a result of autoimmune destruction of pancreatic β-cells, leading to absolute insulin deficiency and persistent hyperglycemia. Unlike type 2 diabetes mellitus, children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes require lifelong insulin replacement therapy and continuous monitoring of blood glucose levels. The incidence of pediatric type 1 diabetes has increased steadily over the past decades, making it a significant public health concern. Without appropriate treatment and regular follow-up, the disease may lead to severe acute complications such as hypoglycemia, diabetic ketoacidosis, and diabetic coma, as well as long-term microvascular and macrovascular complications that negatively affect quality of life.Nursing care is an essential component of comprehensive diabetes management in children. Pediatric nurses play a crucial role in early assessment, continuous monitoring, insulin administration, nutritional counseling, prevention of complications, psychological support, and patient-family education. Effective nursing interventions contribute to maintaining optimal glycemic control, reducing hospitalization rates, preventing disease-related complications, and improving both physical and psychosocial outcomes. Furthermore, educating parents and caregivers regarding insulin administration techniques, blood glucose monitoring, carbohydrate counting, healthy nutrition, physical activity, and emergency management of hypo- and hyperglycemia significantly improves treatment adherence and disease self-management.The nursing process for children with type 1 diabetes includes systematic assessment, identification of nursing diagnoses, planning individualized nursing interventions, implementation of evidence-based care, and continuous evaluation of patient outcomes. Nurses are also responsible for recognizing early signs of metabolic imbalance, maintaining infection prevention measures, monitoring growth and development, and promoting healthy lifestyle habits appropriate for the child's age.This article discusses the etiology, pathophysiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, treatment principles, and particularly the role of nursing care in managing pediatric type 1 diabetes mellitus. It also highlights the importance of family-centered care, multidisciplinary collaboration, patient education, and evidence-based nursing practice in improving long-term health outcomes and quality of life for children living with this chronic condition.