Newman's theory and insulin dependent diabetes mellitus in adolescence.

Application of Margaret Newman's theory of Health as Expanding Consciousness is presented as beneficial for both the school nurse and the adolescent with Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (IDDM). The tenets of Newman's theory are reviewed and application drawn to adolescent development, the management of IDDM, and the development of an Individualized Healthcare Plan (IHP). Implications of the theory for school nurse case management and the process of identifying an adolescent's meaning of health are explored.