SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS FOR SCHOOL PERSONNEL

What is Diabetes?

Diabetes is a serious, chronic disease that impairs the body’s ability to use food. Diabetes must be managed 24 hours a day in order to avoid the potentially life-threatening consequences of blood glucose(sugar) levels that are either too high(hyperglycemia) or too low(hypoglycemia)

Frequent urination

Excessive thirst

Dry, hot skin

Abdominal pain

Chest pain

Drowsiness, lethargy

Increased hunger

Weight loss

Fatigue(tired)

Slow, healing wounds

Fruity, sweet or wine-like odor on breath

Stupor, unconsciousness

Seizure

Death

Headache Sweating Pale, moist skin Cold, clammy Extreme/sudden hunger Weakness, dizziness Shakiness Fatigue, tiredness Rapid, pulse rate Blurred, double vision Shallow breathing Confusion, inattention Loss of coordination Changed behavior or personality Combative Seizure/Death

Hypoglycemia or low blood sugar is an EMERGENCY! A blood sugar level below 70 is an emergency.

Never leave a person with low blood sugar alone

Erratic behavior such as aggression, abnormal hostility or profanity, could indicate abnormal blood sugar levels.

Unusual complaints of thirst, needing to use the restroom, extreme drowsiness, all could indicate abnormal blood sugar levels.

DKA results from untreated high blood sugar

This is an emergency if symptoms occur

Symptoms to look for: nausea, vomiting, deep breathing, decreasing levels of consciousness, coma

Recognize that a change in the student’s behavior could be a symptom of blood sugar levels

Recognize signs/symptoms of high and low blood sugar

Communicate with the school nurse

Respect privacy and confidentiality