diabetic living MAY/JUNE 2019 103Every list will look a little
different, but there are a
few common things to
consider, including:The first steps to take
if you’re still awake.
Include instructions about where
they can (always!) find fast-
acting carbohydrate, so they can
bring it to you. For example: ‘If
Mum’s awake, go and get the
green plastic container out of
her handbag and take it to her’.Details about calling
an ambulance. As well
as reminding them to do this
immediately if you’re not awake,
your checklist should also
include specific details, such as
the emergency number to call,
your home address and what
they should say to the operator,
such as: ‘Tell them Mum’s type 1
diabetic and won’t wake up.
And that she uses insulin’.What they can do while
they’re waiting for the
ambulance. This may include
unlocking the front door and
making sure indoor pets are
safe and secure.Should they call anyone
else? List the names and
numbers of your ‘in case of
emergency’ friends and family.Reminders to stay calm.
As well as practical
instructions, don’t forget to add
ones that remind your child to
keep calm, they’re doing a great
job and that you love them. ■WHAT’S
ON YOUR
CHECKLIST?
W
O
RD
S^ K
AR
EN
FI
TT
AL
L^ P
HO
TO
GR
AP
HY
G
ET
TY
IM
AG
ES
The exact actions you
expect your kids to take
in an emergency will
depend on how old they
are, but the following steps
apply at any age.1
Use calm, matter-of-fact
language to explain things.
“And, if they ask questions,
answer them as honestly as
you can,” says Dr Brennan.
“Brushing them off will make
this subject seem like a scary
thing to avoid, which only
causes anxiety.” It’s also vital
that your kids know what
should prompt them to act.
“If you’re expecting your child
to play a role, it’s important that
they know when to take action,”
says Dr Brennan. So be very
clear about how they’ll know
when you need help.2
Make an Emergency
Checklist. Once you’ve
decided what actions your
child can and should take if
you have a hypo and need help
(see What’s on your Checklist?
at right), make a list and stick it
on the fridge. “That way, they’ll
know they won’t have to rely on
memory, which can make them
feel more confident,” says Dr
Brennan. “For younger children,where reading instructions may
be an issue, you could even
make the list using photos.”3
Do a few drills. As well
as talking your kids
through each action to make
sure they understand what
to do, Dr Brennan suggests
practising the plan, too. “A bit
like the fire drills children might
experience at school, physically
running through the steps on
the checklist a few times can
help make it more routine.”4
Revisit and revise the
checklist often. As your
children grow older, the actions
they could take in the event
of an emergency may change.
“So revisit and review the plan
frequently, to make sure it’s still
appropriate,” says Dr Brennan.5
Don’t forget to debrief.
If your child ever has
cause to use the checklist
for real, Dr Brennan says it’s
important to talk with them
about it after the event. “Ask
how they felt and what it
was like for them. Reflecting
can help you help your child
be even more prepared and
confident, if there’s ever a next
time,” she says.The 5-step plan