Are you interested in using an automatic glucose pump? Maybe you have been diagnosed with diabetes, or maybe you want to learn more about this device. Whatever the reason, it’s important that you understand how to properly use your new glucose pump. Here are some tips and tricks for using your automatic insulin pump.
Table of Contents
Check the blood sugar level
Before you start using your pump, it is important to check your blood sugar level. Some people do this before starting the pump and continuing throughout the day. This can be important for two reasons:
- To ensure that you’re in a safe range before starting your new device.
- To understand how much insulin you need as soon as possible.
Turning the pump on
First, check your blood sugar level. This will help you determine whether or not to turn the pump on. If it’s under 100 mg/dL (5 mmol/L), don’t turn it on yet — wait 15 minutes and check again. Once you’ve confirmed that your blood sugar is stable and within a safe range, turn the insulin pump on by pressing a button or dialing a code into its touchscreen panel. After turning it on, wait 10-15 minutes before checking again to make sure that no additional bolus has been delivered due to misreading of calibrations (more information about this below).
Inserting a new infusion set
Before you insert the infusion set into your skin, it’s important to wash your hands and clean the area. Use a rubbing alcohol wipe on dry skin (not wet) and allow it to dry. To prepare an infusion set:
- Remove tape from pump’s battery door and remove batteries (if applicable).
- Make sure the tubing connector is clean.
- Insert tip of new infusion set into port on back of pump; twist clockwise until secure.
Connecting to the infusion set
- Remove the infusion set from its package, and unwrap it.
- Attach the infusion set to your pump (in case you have a non-automated system) or insert the cannula into your skin at your chosen insertion site and seat it properly using the attached clip or tape (if applicable). Make sure that both ends are secure and not kinked or twisted in any way.
Attaching an infusion site to your body
Your pump will come with everything you need to attach an infusion site. It will also come with a kit that includes a lancet device, test strips, and insulin pen needles.
To use the pump to administer insulin and other medications: Attach an infusion site using the following steps: Place the sensor in the skin on your abdomen, upper thigh, buttock or upper arm. Check that it is securely attached by gently pulling on it. Press firmly against your body with one hand while holding onto your belt or clothing with the other hand.* Press down against your skin until you feel resistance (about 5 seconds).
There are a variety of pumps available in the market today. According to experts like Tandem Diabetes, “True to its name, the t:slim X2 insulin pump is up to 38% smaller than other insulin pumps* yet still holds up to 300 units of insulin” could be one of your choices.
You now have a basic understanding of how to use an automatic glucose pump. You can try out these steps with your own pump and see how they work for you. Remember, it’s important to take your time when using a device like this so that you don’t make any mistakes and hurt yourself or others around you.
