Insulin Pump Therapy

What is an insulin pump?

A pump is a small device about the size of a pager or small glucose meter. It attaches to a tiny tube that sits just under your skin in areas where you might now give your insulin. The pump is not put inside your body. You wear the pump clipped to a belt, slipped in a pocket, or tucked inside your clothing. The tiny tube needs to be changed about every 2-3 days.

How does it work?

A pump delivers tiny amounts of insulin all day long and can deliver larger amounts when you eat. The pump's small computer can be programmed to adjust the insulin based on your activity level and your body's needs at different times of day. The pump is designed to work much like your pancreas did before you had diabetes.

What are some reasons people choose pump therapy?

  • Flexible lifestyle
  • Better blood sugar control
  • Fewer needle sticks
  • Fewer/less severe insulin reactions
  • Better control during exercise
  • Better control for shift workers

Other possible benefits for you:

  • Decreased nighttime hypoglycemia.
  • Reduction in wide fluctuations in blood sugar.
  • Management of Dawn Phenomenon.
  • Improved control during growth spurts.
  • Multiple settings for varying activities.
  • Improved control when ill.

What pump therapy can't do:

  • Eliminate blood sugar testing.
  • Eliminate needle sticks.
  • Eliminate meal planning.
  • Eliminate insulin decisions.
  • Eliminate your responsibility for your diabetes.

What are some drawbacks?

  • Wearing a pump means being attached to a device nearly all the tim.
  • It can be removed for short periods of time such as changing clothes, bathing, swimming.
  • Infusion set is changed and replaced every 2-3 days.
  • Severe illness can occur if insulin is not delivered due to tubing that is kinked, dislodged or has air in it.

For more information about insulin pump therapy, talk with your doctor or call St. Luke's Diabetes Education at 319/369-7440.