A 14-year-old with type 1 diabetes wants to eat out after a volleyball game. How should the nurse respond?

A 14-year-old with type 1 diabetes wants to eat out after a volleyball game. How should the nurse respond?

• A. I'll teach you how to determine the amount of carbohydrates in different fast foods.
• B. Fast foods are unhealthy, especially for teenagers with diabetes.
• C. It would be best if you ate at home, where you can control your diet.
• D. Go with your friends but make an effort to eat something other than pizza.

Answer: (A)

Empowering self-management through carbohydrate counting allows safe dining out for teens with type 1 diabetes. When a teen wants to eat at a restaurant after a game, the nurse should reinforce skills to estimate the carbohydrate content of meals so insulin can be adjusted accordingly. Carbohydrate counting is the practical tool that lets the patient choose foods, including fast foods, while maintaining blood glucose and reducing the risk of hypoglycemia after exercise. This approach supports independence, social participation, and appropriate glycemic control, rather than imposing blanket restrictions or judging food choices.

Empowering self-management through carbohydrate counting allows safe dining out for teens with type 1 diabetes. When a teen wants to eat at a restaurant after a game, the nurse should reinforce skills to estimate the carbohydrate content of meals so insulin can be adjusted accordingly. Carbohydrate counting is the practical tool that lets the patient choose foods, including fast foods, while maintaining blood glucose and reducing the risk of hypoglycemia after exercise. This approach supports independence, social participation, and appropriate glycemic control, rather than imposing blanket restrictions or judging food choices.