Being Sick Advice

I have to go to the hospital, what should I take into consideration when preparing?

You may have a stay in hospital (long or short). This may be for something diabetes related, or not.

Here are some things to think about:

  • The hospital should provide the insulin you normally use – but this may take some time so take some with you to avoid delays.
  • Take your own supplies of diabetes equipment, e.g., blood-testing kit or pump supplies (they probably won’t be able to provide this).
  • Ward staff should be up-to-date with your diabetes care, but do check that they have discussed it with your diabetes team. If they haven’t yet, make sure they do.
  • Don’t assume that everyone treating you will know you have diabetes – it’s always better to be over-cautious and keep mentioning it.
  • While in hospital, your blood glucose levels may be higher or lower than normal. Stress and longer periods of inactivity are just two reasons why. Your blood glucose levels might need to be tested more often and treatment adjusted.

If you want to manage your diabetes care yourself while in hospital you should be supported

I had an accident what am I supposed to do?

You may be in a situation where you need medical attention for something other than diabetes, such as an accident or injury. This might involve a wait in the hospital for a while before being seen. Make sure you tell someone as soon as you arrive that you have diabetes and that you might need to eat to avoid going hypo (usually people are advised not to eat or drink while in A&E, in case they need surgery). If you feel you need to eat or drink, check with the staff first.