Low Box
Hypoglycemia is the state of low blood sugar and is caused by too much insulin or too little sugar in the body. It is defined as a blood sugar below 3.9 millimoles per liter (mmol/L)70 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Treatment requires a source of rapid-acting carbohydrates such as juice, candy, or glucose tabs if the student is conscious.*
It is a good idea to provide supply kits for classrooms, libraries, gymnasiums and anywhere else your child visits frequently throughout the school day. Use a pencil box or other with a customized label on the outside (“Charlize’s Low Box”). Teachers and other school personnel are always happy to have clear, concise instructions printed out inside the “Low Box” so that anyone could help, including a substitute.
Kits should include everything needed to treat low blood sugar, as well as other general backup type 1 diabetic (T1D) supplies.
- Concise instructions for how to treat a low and test—attached to lid is ideal.
- Description of your child’s symptoms (“He gets pale and talks fast when low” etc.)
- Instructions for when to call for extra help (911)
- Juice boxes (check amount of carbs to ensure personal ideal size)
- Glucose tablets
- Candy – Skittles or non-melting!
- Snacks like granola bars or crackers
- Extra vial of test strips and batteries for meters and pumps as needed
- Emergency glucagon kits as needed
Sample
In addition to the items listed above, make sure your school’s nurse’s office is equipped with:
- Insulin (refrigerated)—both long and short-acting depending on your child’s needs
- Syringes, lancets and extra test strips
- Infusion sets (for insulin pump) and supplies for insertion, like alcohol pads and adhesion wipes
- Glucagon kit for emergency use if the student is unconscious*
Download the continuous glucose monitor (CGM) action chart HERE.
