Pediatrics: office management of diabetes mellitus in children.

For children with diabetes and their families, education should start immediately upon diagnosis of the disease or recovery from the initial episode of ketoacidosis and should be directed specifically toward childhood diabetes. The physician or nurse should be accessible by phone at all times in case of severe hypoglycemia or ketoacidosis. Nonemergency problems are handled during routine office visits, which should be scheduled regularly every three months. Measures important to good control include accurate daily testing of urine, proper choice and careful regulation of insulin, and maintenance of a well-balanced diet consistent in total intake and meal and snack times. Children who stay involved with peer groups and activities maintain a healthier attitude toward living with their disease.