Promoting normalization in families with preschool children with type 1 diabetes.

ISSUES AND PURPOSE

The family environment is the most important influence on child adaptation to type 1 diabetes. A plan of care assists parental adaptation in families with a preschool child with type 1 diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

The family environment is affected by the family's progress toward normalcy. Normalization can be facilitated by nursing interventions that promote parental mutuality in management and the development of a parental support system.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Nurses can provide education about Type 1 diabetes and its management in preschool children to fathers, other family members, and family friends to encourage their involvement in caregiving. Parental mutuality in management and an adequate parental instrumental support system facilitates normalization and affects the family environment, thus promoting child adaptation.