Pump Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is an insulin pump?
An insulin pump is a small battery-operated device about the size of a small cell phone. It continuously delivers small amounts of insulin through an infusion line placed under the skin. The infusion set must be changed every few days, which you can easily do yourself.
How do insulin pumps work?
An insulin pump has a reservoir that is filled with insulin and a microcomputer that allows you to adjust how much insulin is to be delivered. Pumps only use buffered short-acting or rapid-acting insulin (not long- or intermediate-acting insulin). Basal insulin is delivered continuously over 24 hours to keep your blood sugar levels in range between meals and overnight. You can program different amounts of insulin for different times of the day and night. When you eat, you use buttons on the pump to give you additional or "bolus" insulin to cover the carbohydrates in the meal.
What are the advantages of using an insulin pump?
Some advantages of using an insulin pump include:
- Eliminating individual insulin injections
- More accurate delivery of insulin
- Fewer large swings in blood sugar levels
- Flexibility about what and when you eat
Are there disadvantages to using an insulin pump?
The disadvantages of using a pump include:
- If the catheter accidentally comes out and you don't get insulin for hours it can lead to diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)
- May be expensive
- It may be bothersome since you are attached to it most of the time
Where do I put the insulin pump when I sleep?
When you sleep, you can try laying the pump next to you on the bed or even on a bedside table. Some pump wearers put it in a pocket in their pajamas or wear it on a waistband, armband, legband, or clip it to the blanket or pillow with a belt clip. Do what works best for you!
Can I take a bath or shower?
Yes. Although insulin pumps are water resistant, you should not set them directly in water. Insulin pumps come with disconnect ports so they can easily be disconnected for showering, bathing, or swimming. Some pumps have special cases you can buy to place them in, which can be hung around your neck or on a shower faucet.
What are the benefits of using Apidra® in a pump?
Apidra® has shown a low rate of pump clogs and infusion site reactions. Apidra® gives you mealtime dosing flexibility because you can set your pump to deliver your dose within 15 minutes before or within 20 minutes after you start a meal. Apidra® is a rapid-acting insulin that works like your body's natural insulin to help manage your blood sugar.
Is using Apidra® in a pump right for you?
Consider the benefits of Apidra® and talk with your healthcare provider to learn if Apidra® can help you better manage your mealtime blood sugar as part of your overall diabetes treatment plan, which includes diet, exercise, and other diabetes medications.
