Because of the special requirements for children, the pediatric diabetes program utilizes pediatric endocrinologists, a pediatric nurse diabetes educator, pediatric registered dietitians, pediatric staff registered nurses, a pediatric social worker, a child psychologist, and the child-life staff. The child with newly diagnosed diabetes is admitted to Mayo Eugenio Litta Children's Hospital for an average stay of three to five days. The setting is informal. The treatment program uses two or three injections of insulin per day. For younger children, instruction is geared to the parents, who will be responsible for managing the child's care.
Teenagers learn to function independently, with parents in a supporting role.
Specialized audiovisual and print materials are used. For the first few days to weeks after dismissal, the child and family are in contact with the pediatric endocrinologist or nurse diabetes educator to determine insulin doses and answer questions. A pediatric diabetes clinic appointment is scheduled for six weeks after dismissal. Pediatric education services are offered continuously throughout the year. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research.