Short-term Sick Day Checklist

A checklist for: When to call your Doctor/Nurse and what information you should have available for them.

WHEN TO CALL YOUR DOCTOR OR NURSE ABOUT BEING SICK OR "OUT OF SORTS"

Just go through the checklist and check what you have

• if you are sick longer than 1 - 2 days
• if you are unable to eat regular foods for more than one day
• if you have signs of infection; redness, warmth, swelling, pus, tenderness
• if you have symptoms of dehydration; dry mouth, fever, thirst, dry flushed skin, vomiting, abdominal pain, severe nausea, diarrhea, rapid breathing
• if you have vomiting and diarrhea lasting longer than 6 hours
• if you have increased urination and increased thirst
• if you have questions about adjusting insulin/oral agents
• if you have a cough and bring up yellow or green material
• if you have a fever and questions about what to eat or drink
• if any symptoms get worse
• if you have any questions about how to take care of yourself and control your diabetes

INFORMATION TO HAVE READY FOR DOCTOR/NURSE WHEN YOU CALL

• length of time you have been sick
• your temperature
• what’s bothering you (a list of your symptoms)
• test results (urine ketones and blood sugar)
• diabetes medication (type, time you take, and amount you take)
• other medications you take, and any medication allergies
• pharmacy phone number

REMEMBER - REMEMBER - REMEMBER

1. Always take your insulin or oral agent unless your blood sugar is extremely low for you.
2. Drink a lot of fluids.
3. Test urine ketones and do blood sugar every 4 - 6 hours and remember to write it down.
4. Eat 50 grams of carbohydrates or food equal to 200 calories every 3 - 4 hours. Use frequent, small feedings.
5. If you are sick for more than 1 day and can’t eat the carbohydrates or take in any food ... call your doctor or nurse or Emergency Room.
6. Know all of the health care giver’s names and phone numbers.

When you get better, from SHORT-TERM illness (1-2 days), return to your normal eating plan and medication dosage. If you are unable to eat, are vomiting or have diarrhea, call immediately!