Which is the nurse's best response to the parents of a 10-year-old child newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes mellitus who are concerned about the child's continued participation in soccer?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Suggesting an alternative sport unnecessarily limits the child's participation; children with type 1 diabetes can safely participate in most physical activities with proper planning. B. While children with diabetes can play sports, simply allowing participation without guidance on blood glucose management before and after activity is insufficient. C. Encouraging only intellectual activity is unnecessary and restrictive; physical activity is important for growth, development, and diabetes management. D. Providing an extra 15 to 30 g of carbohydrate before exercise helps prevent hypoglycemia, which is a common risk during physical activity for children with type 1 diabetes. This response is practical, evidence-based, and promotes safe participation in sports.