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CDE Diabetes

Flashcards: Type 1 Diabetes in Children and Adolescents (Chapter 34)

Type 1 diabetes is the most common endocrine disease in childhood and adolescence, presenting unique challenges that evolve as the child grows. These flashcards are designed to help pharmacists and healthcare professionals memorize the 2018 Clinical Practice Guidelines regarding pediatric-specific A1C targets, the prevention of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) complications, and the screening schedules for associated autoimmune conditions.

Key Topics Covered:

  • Therapeutic Targets: Recalling the unified A1C target of <7.5% for all pediatric age groups to balance long-term complications with the risk of severe hypoglycemia.

  • Insulin Regimens: Identifying basal-bolus therapy (MDI) and continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII/pumps) as the standards of care for matching insulin to physiological needs.

  • DKA Management: Understanding the critical protocols to prevent cerebral edema, the leading cause of mortality in pediatric DKA, particularly avoiding aggressive fluid resuscitation.

  • Comorbidity Screening: Memorizing the screening schedule for hypothyroidism (at diagnosis and every 2 years) and celiac disease (at diagnosis and if symptomatic).

  • Monitoring Protocols: Reviewing the recommendation for frequent glucose monitoring (6 to 10 times daily) or the use of Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) to manage glycemic variability.