Final answer:
It is typically not recommended to hold insulin injections when someone is ill, as insulin is needed to regulate blood glucose levels and prevent serious complications such as ketoacidosis. This is especially crucial for individuals with type 1 diabetes, who must continue their insulin treatment to manage their condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Whether to hold insulin when someone is ill is a medical decision that should take into account individual circumstances. Typically, people with diabetes need to continue their insulin injections even when they are sick. Insulin is crucial for transporting and storing glucose to decrease blood glucose levels after consuming a meal. It is especially important for those with type 1 diabetes, who lack the ability to produce insulin, to continue their insulin regimen as a part of the standard treatment to keep blood glucose levels stable. Ketoacidosis is a serious condition that can occur if a dose of insulin is missed, making it dangerous for diabetic individuals to stop or alter their insulin regimen without consulting a healthcare professional. Even during illness, maintaining proper glucose levels is vital to prevent complications like ketoacidosis. Thus, it is generally advised not to skip insulin injections during sickness unless directed by a healthcare provider.