ESP Nursing 2: 8.1.- Doing a blood sugar test and modal verbs

Introductory video about what diabetes is.

Video quiz of what diabetes is

https://app.kwizie.ai/en/qp/363416

Vocabulary Presentation about Tools when Doing a Blood Sugar Test

https://lasallecancun-my.sharepoint.com/:p:/g/personal/dc0519_lasallecancun_edu_mx/EQ-cmzMLs4FIkmZ8sGWb2CIBYy8Xu17SYuZEKq33yOzd8g?e=YdgnoB

Blood Sugar Testing: Essential Tools and Their Uses

Monitoring blood sugar is vital for diabetes care. Healthcare professionals use several tools to perform these tests.

Glucometer

A glucometer is a handheld device that measures blood sugar levels. Insert a test strip, apply a blood drop, and the device displays the glucose reading.

Blood Testing Strips

These are disposable strips used with a glucometer. They collect the blood sample and contain chemicals that react with glucose.

Lancets

Lancets are small needles used to prick the skin, usually the fingertip, to obtain a blood sample. They are often used with a lancing device to control depth and reduce discomfort.

Cotton Swabs

Cotton swabs, often soaked in alcohol, are used to clean the skin before pricking and to stop bleeding afterward.

Urinalysis Sticks

These strips detect glucose in urine. Dip the stick into a urine sample; a color change indicates glucose presence. While less precise than blood tests, they provide additional information.

Step-by-Step Guide:

Prepare Materials: Gather glucometer, test strip, lancet, alcohol swab, and cotton swab.
Clean Hands: Wash and dry hands thoroughly.
Insert Test Strip: Place a new strip into the glucometer.
Prepare Lancet: Load a new lancet into the device.
Clean Finger: Use an alcohol swab to disinfect the fingertip.
Obtain Blood Sample: Prick the finger and collect a drop of blood.
Apply Blood: Touch the blood drop to the test strip.
Read Result: Wait for the glucometer to display the reading.
Post-Test Care: Use a cotton swab to stop bleeding.
Dispose Materials: Safely discard used items.

Understanding these tools ensures accurate blood sugar monitoring and effective patient care.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2024, May 15). Type 1 diabetes. https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/about/about-type-1-diabetes.html
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. (n.d.). Type 2 diabetes. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diabetes/overview/what-is-diabetes/type-2-diabetes
Mayo Clinic. (2025, May 30). Gestational diabetes: Symptoms & causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/gestational-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20355339

Collaborative Exercise 1a on page 76

Understanding Diabetes: Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational

Diabetes is a condition where the body has trouble managing blood sugar levels. There are three main types: Type 1, Type 2, and Gestational Diabetes. Each type has different causes, treatments, and effects on health.

Type 1 Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes usually starts in childhood or adolescence. It happens when the immune system attacks the pancreas, stopping it from making insulin. People with Type 1 diabetes need to take insulin every day to control their blood sugar. The exact cause is not known, but genetics and environmental factors may play a role.

Type 2 Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults but can also occur in younger people. It develops when the body doesn't use insulin properly, leading to high blood sugar levels. Risk factors include being overweight, lack of exercise, and family history. Treatment often involves lifestyle changes like healthy eating and regular exercise. Some people may also need medication or insulin therapy.

Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and usually goes away after the baby is born. It happens when pregnancy hormones make it harder for the body to use insulin. This type increases the risk of high birth weight and complications during delivery. Women with gestational diabetes have a higher chance of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life. Management includes a healthy diet, physical activity, and sometimes insulin therapy.

Key Differences

Feature	Type 1 Diabetes	Type 2 Diabetes	Gestational Diabetes
When it occurs	Childhood or adolescence	Adulthood (but increasing in youth)	During pregnancy
Cause	Autoimmune response	Insulin resistance	Hormonal changes in pregnancy
Insulin production	None	Reduced or ineffective use	Reduced due to pregnancy hormones
Treatment	Insulin injections	Lifestyle changes, medication, insulin	Diet, exercise, possibly insulin
Duration	Lifelong	Lifelong	Temporary (during pregnancy)

Conclusion

Understanding the differences between these types of diabetes is important for providing proper care. Each type requires specific management to ensure the health and well-being of patients.

References