High blood sugar during a HS exam

I am the parent of a 15-year-old HS sophomore, who was diagnosed at age 11 and has been on the pump for several years.  From time to time, when he takes an exam, he experiences a high blood sugar, which may be related to stress, among other factors.  (He isn't more nervous than other kids about tests, but it is a pressure situation.)  There have been times when he feels "off" before or at the beginning of an exam, tests his blood sugar, finds he is high, and asks to be excused from the exam so he can take it later in the day when his blood sugar is under control.  It doesn't happen regularly, but it does occur, and his teachers have generally been understanding and cooperative.  He doesn't have any sort of 504 plan or its equivalent regarding any of his courses or activities at school.  The school knows of his condition, as do his academic advisor and his teachers and the school nurse (who keeps extra supplies and a glucagon kit in her office).

Today a situation occurred where he did not test his blood sugar before starting a science exam (he should do this, but ...), and was not able to finish the exam -- meaning time ran out and he hadn't finished.  When he got to his next class, he tested at over 300.  When I spoke to him after school on his cell phone, he told me about the situation, and I suggested he email his teacher at once explaining that he was very high during the exam, and asking if he could have a reasonable amount of additional time to complete the test.  (My son was still at school, but the teacher had already left school by the time I spoke to my son.)  He was not excited about sending the email, but I believe he will.

I would be interested in hearing from other parents about how they deal with this sort of thing.  Thanks.

My daughter is only 7 but, we have seen poor performance on tests which we think may have been due to high BS.  The school nurse has recommended that before each test, our daughter test her blood sugar and record it on the top of her test paper.  That way the teacher knows what was going on with her at the time of the test.  I'm sure getting a teen to always remember to do this can be a challenge.  I would also suggest that you get a 504 plan in place.  It will protect your son if he has a not so understanding teacher.  It is also important to have one in place so that when he takes tests like the SAT, they will know there are special circumstances and protect his rights (imagine having a high BS the day of the SAT and not being allowed to drink during the test or get up to use the bathroom).

Wishing you the best of luck!

 

My son is 9 and due to the same situation, plus also being ADHD - we needed to get a plan in place right away. You do need an 504 set...it helps in so many ways. Does he have any other conditions as well?