Insulin pump: setup and changing the infusion set
insulin pump · diabetes pump · pump infusion set change · pump setup · infusion set
A pump is a small device that delivers insulin under your skin in small amounts through a thin tube. You change the catheter in your skin yourself every few days.
For diabetes, when your doctor has decided to switch you from injections to a pump.
⏱ Duration: changing a set usually takes 10 to 15 minutes; the first training at the clinic takes a few hours
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Training. The first insertion and setup are usually done with a doctor or nurse. Only your doctor sets the doses.
- Supplies. Keep a stock at home of sets, reservoirs, batteries and an insulin pen in case the pump breaks.
- When to change. Change the set in the daytime, when you can check your sugar 2 to 3 hours later. Not before bed.
- Cleanliness. Wash your hands and put the antiseptic and everything you need on a clean table.
What to bring
- The pump and a new infusion set
- A reservoir and insulin
- A glucose meter
- A sugar diary or app
How it goes
- Wash your hands and check the expiry dates of the insulin and the set
- Fill a new reservoir with insulin without air bubbles
- Put the reservoir in the pump and fill the tubing as you were taught, until a drop shows at the end
- Choose a new spot on your belly or another site, away from the last one
- Wipe the skin with antiseptic and let it dry
- Insert the catheter with the inserter and remove the guide needle
- Fill the cannula from the pump menu, if your model needs it
- Check your sugar after 2 to 3 hours
What you'll feel
- A short prick when the catheter goes in
- In the first days the pump on your body feels strange, then you barely notice it
Afterwards
- Change the set usually every 2 to 3 days - the time is in the set's instructions
- Write down set changes and sugar
- Always carry sweets and a spare insulin pen
- Show your pump data to your doctor regularly
Contact a doctor straight away if
- High sugar that does not come down after a correction - change the set and call your doctor
- Nausea, vomiting, smell of acetone or severe thirst - see a doctor urgently, and if you get worse, call your local emergency number
- Redness, pain or pus at the set site
- The person is unconscious or having seizures - call your local emergency number
Common questions
Can I shower with the pump?
Usually the pump is disconnected for a shower. Whether you can use it in water is in the instructions for your model.
What if the pump breaks?
Switch to injections with a pen, using the backup plan from your doctor. If you have no plan, call your doctor.