Which comment made by a school-age child indicates that he needs more teaching about diabetes mellitus and exercise?
Explanation & Rationale
Choice A rationale: Carrying a piece of hard candy is a proactive and safe strategy for managing hypoglycemia during exercise. A hard candy provides a rapid source of glucose, which can quickly elevate blood sugar levels if they begin to drop. This demonstrates an understanding of how to prevent and treat exercise-induced hypoglycemia, a common concern for individuals with diabetes. Choice B rationale: Having emergency money is a prudent measure to manage unexpected situations related to diabetes, such as needing to purchase food or glucose tablets if an episode of hypoglycemia occurs. This action indicates a level of preparedness and understanding of the potential risks associated with physical activity when managing diabetes, showcasing good self-management skills. Choice C rationale: Skipping breakfast before morning exercise, such as a soccer game, is dangerous and indicates a significant knowledge deficit. This behavior dramatically increases the risk of exercise-induced hypoglycemia because the body's glucose stores are already low from an overnight fast, and the added energy expenditure from exercise can deplete them further, leading to a hypoglycemic episode. Choice D rationale: Playing in a soccer game after dinner is a safe practice. It demonstrates an understanding of timing exercise relative to meals. The meal provides a source of carbohydrates, which helps to maintain stable blood glucose levels during the physical activity, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia. This is a well-managed approach to combining physical activity with diabetes care.