MedicAlert identification bracelets.
These bracelets should be worn at all times so that if you happen to become unconscious or confused (for example, after a motor vehicle accident or a cerebral concussion) when you're not with a trained companion, health care professionals willknowyou're a diabetic and takeappropriateaction. (Although necklaces arealso available, theyareless likely than bracelets to be noticed in an emergency.
I therefore recommend onlythe brace lets.) Available by mail order, using forms that your physician should be able to provide, or phone (800) 432-5378.
They're also on the Web at www.medicalert.org.
By registering with MedicAlert (the cost at this writing is $45the firstyearand includes a stainless steelbraceletf)> youcaninformthosewhotreatyouhowyouwantto be treated, which is crucial for maintaining reasonable blood sugars.
Furthermore, you can have your complete medical history available to EMS or emer gency room personnel.
This includes any directives for care you may have in place (such as not to use a glucose intravenous drip if your blood sugar is not too low).Phone or visittheir Website for more in formation.
*Thesize of Sweetarts varies withthe packaging, so 10mg/dlcan likewise vary. f MedicAlert also provides sterling silver and solid gold bracelets at additional cost.
72 BeforeYou Start
Ketostix. These dipsticks are for testing your urine for ketoneswhen you are in danger of dehydration. (See Chapter 21.)
Clinistix or Diastlx. Theseare urine test strips for glucosesimilar to Ketostix, but we use them for testingfood (eventhough they are mar ketedfor testing urine). See Chapter 10, "Diet Guidelines Essential to the Treatment ofAll Diabetics," to learn how you can use them to de termine if packaged or restaurant foods containsugaror flour. Avail able at most pharmacies.
Skin lubricants. In Appendix D you will find foot care guidelines, an importantpart of diabetic self-care. Ifyourfeet aredry, youshould use an animal or vegetable oil lubricant. Don't use mineral oils or petroleum-based products, asyourskin will not absorb them. Do not use products containing urea or mostly glycols. Available at Rosedale Pharmacy, drugstores, and health food stores. Olive oil is available at most food markets.
Bath thermometer. Many diabetics have impaired sensation in their feet. Without knowing it, you can scald and seriously injure your feet if showers or baths are too hot. Don't take foot care lightly.Poor foot care for diabetics can lead to amputation, especially if you have poor circulation. Available at most pharmacies.
Books and publications. There are many books of food values available that can be helpful in trying to figure out your meal plan (see