Insulin Pump
(Health products)
Everything You Need to Know Before Using an Insulin Pump.
What is an Insulin Pump?
- An insulin pump is a small medical device worn by a person that delivers a continuous amount of rapid-acting insulin under the skin. Most pumps are about the size of a small juice box. Insulin pumps serve as an alternative to multiple daily insulin injections (via syringe or pen) for people with diabetes who need insulin to manage their condition.
- The insulin pump mimics the way the pancreas naturally releases insulin by delivering insulin in two ways:
Continuous small doses of insulin (basal insulin): These doses are delivered throughout the day at varying rates according to the body’s needs. The rates may need adjustment over time based on changes in your body and routine. Most pumps automatically adjust doses based on glucose levels from a continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) device, but they can also be adjusted manually.
Insulin doses for meals or to correct high blood sugar (bolus doses): The pump calculates the required amount based on carbohydrate intake and blood glucose levels, suggesting a dose that can be confirmed or modified before delivery.
Types of Insulin Pumps
Pumps vary in settings and technology, such as:
Integration with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) to automatically adjust insulin delivery based on glucose levels.
Options to manually adjust basal insulin rates.
Alerts for low battery or low insulin levels.
Alerts for high or low glucose if connected to a CGM device.
Connectivity with smartphones and other smart devices.
What to Consider When Buying an Insulin Pump
When purchasing an insulin pump, consider the following:
Weight, size, and appearance of the pump.
Compatibility with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology.
Water resistance or waterproof rating.
Available insulin delivery settings and programs.
Types of alerts, including sound and vibration options.
Clarity of pump display screens.
Smart devices that can connect to the pump.
Ease of use of the pump.
Programs for downloading and sharing data with healthcare providers.
Frequently Asked Questions:
– What are the side effects andsigns to stop using the pump?
Side effects may include infections, irritation, insulin leakage, or setting issues. Signs that indicate you should stop using the pump include insulin delivery problems, which can occur for various reasons, such as:
Twisted or kinked tubing: The tube under the skin can bend, blocking insulin flow.
Insulin crystallization: After 2–3 days, insulin may crystallize in the tube, preventing full delivery.
Detachment of the infusion set from the tubing: In tubed pumps, the tubing may disconnect from the infusion site, causing insulin leakage.
Inflammation or blood pooling at the infusion site: This can block insulin from reaching the body.
Adhesive problems: Adhesive patches may stick poorly or come off prematurely.
Pump failure: The pump may malfunction,or the battery may run out.
How to manage these issues:
Carry extra insulin and supplies when leaving home.
Keep injectable insulin and injection tools as a backup.
Contact the pump manufacturer’s customer service when needed.
Regularly check the pump, infusion set, and monitor blood glucose levels.
How to Use an Insulin Pump
