Insulin Pump at 4 week camp

Specialties Camp

Published

Hi

I will be a camp nurse for the first time at a 4 week sleep away camp in the woods. I will be the RN stationed in the infirmary and I'll be working 6 days, with 1 day off per week. There is a doctor's office within a short drive from the camp, and a hospital about 30-45 minutes away. I just found out that there is a 10 year old child who was diagnosed with diabetes in the past year and JUST started on a pump. The camp starts mid July. This camp is set in the woods, probably swimming in the lake every day, overnight hikes, etc. I am not too familiar with insulin pumps but can certainly figure it out. I feel a bit nervous where it is so new to this child. Has anyone experienced anything like this? Thoughts/advice?

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We have gotten a few kids with pumps. Our camp is proactive when it comes to kids with diabetes . We have orders from the pediatrician or endocrinologist . Regarding sliding scales, snacks, carb counts etc. We also have the child leave the pump at the nurses station prior to swimming, and retrieve it immediately after swimming. The camper is also assigned a counselor during the swim. The counselor is trained to notice any symptoms of hypoglycemia. It may be difficult at larger camps, but we may only accept 1 or 2 diabetics per trip.

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Specializes in Home Health (PDN), Camp Nursing.

Well the kid should have the pump for about a month prior to camp. So it's not like they are putting it on him and shoving him on the bus. I imagine the camper will have basic working knowledge ans trouble shooting ability. I would review instructions for the pumps operation for particular model the child has. Get explicit orders from the endocrinologist. You may even call the company and see if they have information for school nurses. If your still worried ask your camp director to give you the credit card and consult a diabeties educator to inservice you and other staff. If the camp is taking the kid, than the camp has to be sure everyone is up to speed to relieve liability.

Oh and get the kitchen on this. They will need to provide carb counts for all meals.

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