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Looking after a T1 in a school environment

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Redflame

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Type 2
Hi,
I'm type 2 ( since pregnancy) & on insulin. I work in a school & for the past few months have been expected to look after a child who is type 1 & on a pump. My question is, should a diabetic be caring for a diabetic?
 
Is it caring or supporting? Secondary school?

I help out kids in my school in a supportive role and showing them that there’s nothing they can’t do day today they may just need to plan a little more.

I don’t think you should be asked to do anything you’re not comfortable with. Is there a SEN department that can help out??
 
Redflame said:
My question is, should a diabetic be caring for a diabetic?
Click to expand...
Hello and welcome to the forum.
My question to you would be why shouldn't a person with diabetes be caring for a person with diabetes?

If you are not happy/confident in the roll then you need to speak to the relevant people concerned.
You don't mention the age of the youngster concerned either, if it's a teenager then imho they should be able to manage on their own with very little input from others.
 
I always forget the welcome bit! Sorry @Redflame ...... welcome.
 
What happens if you are away ill? Is someone else available to stand in?
 
What age children? There’s no reason why someone who is diabetic can’t look after a diabetic child but bosses think you have more insight because you have diabetes that would concern me as type 2 is so different. Have you had proper support and training from the child’s DSN? There are some key safety factors to a pump as if it goes wrong there needs to be an immediate response as there’s no slow release insulin in the system. If you don’t feel comfortable or confident then that’s something to flag with your line manger and the child/child’s parents and DSN so you get the right information.
 
I think you certainly could, and there should be nothing stopping you from being in that supportive role if you are happy to take it on... but it sounds like you either don’t feel confident, properly trained, or supported in the role?
 
I haven't had any training on the diabetic pump yet. It's a 1:1 role so supporting him full time, it's more of a concern - what if I have a hypo, which I go to the staffroom & deal with but I've been told I have to stay with him at all times. That's what's bothering me, his diabetes is not well controlled.
 
Hi. I work in a school too. I often step in to take the class while the teacher steps out/attends meeting etc. If i feel hypo i have to get someone to come in and cover me. I suppose what i'm trying to say is that there should be more than one person available/trained in looking after the child just in case you are off sick or unable for any reason. What about any First Aiders? Could they be trained about the pump. I don't use one myself so i can't comment on them or how they work as i haven't a clue. Are you able to speak to your SENCO or member of SLT about your concerns. For me , i would have no problem supporting someone but i do think that some/most/all people who come into contact with the child should have some basic knowledge just in case you are away.
 
Hopefully having training in the new year but we are so short staffed. Our Senco is also our deputy head, there is never anyone around to take over .
 
Redflame said:
I haven't had any training on the diabetic pump yet. It's a 1:1 role so supporting him full time, it's more of a concern - what if I have a hypo, which I go to the staffroom & deal with but I've been told I have to stay with him at all times. That's what's bothering me, his diabetes is not well controlled.
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I can fully understand where you are coming from and imho no it's not your job to be a full time hcp to the child.

I would be asking why the child is having such difficulties with their diabetes and you need to address this with the parents and the nurses.
 
How sad :(
Can you meet with his Social Worker? The LA have a duty of care, can you attend his next Child in need/LAC review?
 
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Thats really sad. Could it be his situation isn't helping his control? I think everyone needs to get together and discuss the best way to deal with things...his support and control of diabetes and training for everyone involved in school. Could the SENCO arrange an urgent review to include his DSN, carers, social workers? My thoughts and best wishes go out to you and i hope it gets sorted.
 
Has his DSN been in to speak to you yet? They usually do an education and support session.
 
It does sound like a wider meeting is needed to give the child the best support and encouragement possible - Bless them (him/her ) Sometime life just suck for kids. Good luck in trying to sort it out
 
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