Be Prepared

I sought some advice on this subject from many parents involved in the Keto Yahoo group. I've come to the conclusion that "Being Prepared" for the stressful times that come with the diet is individual. There is not one answer for everyone.

I think as a Keto Parent we should sit down and write out the different scenarios that we consider an "emergency" situation for our Keto Kid. Next, write out the way you would handle each scenario. Just a little planning ahead might make those really freaky/stressful moments a little easier. Remember to always run your plan, medicine choices and dosages by your dietician and neurologist. Trying to get approval during an emergency is impossible.

Here is a few of my "Emergency" Situations & how I plan to handle them. Most we have already faced and my list helped me a ton. I didn't have to freak out looking for stuff or worrying about dosages. I didn't include phone numbers of physicians/dieticians on this list because it's the internet. But those are key on your list.

1. Illness
a. Ibuprofen (adult 1 tablet), Diabetic Tussin (1 tsp.)
b. Get plenty of fresh air when croupy
c. Humidifier
d. Notice subtle changes, take notes.
e. Watch for Carpal Pedal Spasms (flu)
f. Get plenty of fluids. Monitor closely.
g. Refusal to eat - Get favorites. Call Dietician if necessary.
h. Always keep acceptable medication list with Keto Binder & take to the Pharmacy.
(Your dietician should give you a list of acceptable meds with their carb numbers that you can take to your Pediatrician as well as the Pharmacist. This is key. Never Ever be timid about asking your Pharmacist about carb/sugars in meds. A good relationship with a good pharmacist is essential!)

2. Seizure
a. Time it
b. Bulb Syringe (Emergency Prep kit in car and at home in pantry)
c. Diastat -20 mg after 7 minutes
d. Hospital Protocol Letter in Car/Home Emergency Kits

3. Too Ketotic
a. Small glass of apple juice
b. Take Ketones
c. Page Dietician