Monitoring Your Blood Glucose > Insulin Pumps
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An insulin pump is a small, battery-operated device that supplies a continuous amount of insulin to the body
- The pump is about the size of a pager and contains a battery-driven motor and a supply of insulin
- The pump is connected to the body by tubing and a single needle or soft cannula. The insertion site is changed every one to three days.
- Insulin that is delivered continuously is called the basal dose. The dose given before meals is called a bolus dose.
- The decision to use an insulin pump requires careful consultation with your health care professional
Learn about the full-featured glucose management system, the OneTouch® Ping™ insulin pump and meter-remote brought to you by OneTouch® and Animas®.
Pump Users Must:
- Be under the supervision of a doctor who understands the technicalities of the insulin pump
- Check blood glucose levels frequently
- Be able to cover its costs
Insulin Pump Pros
- Fewer injections
- Allows for better blood glucose control
- Works continuously to provide a small dose of insulin 24 hours a day, similar to the normal pancreas
- Provides greater flexibility with food intake and mealtimes
- Makes it easier to adjust dosage
- Uses only rapid-acting insulin which is more predictable in its action
Insulin Pump Cons
- Pump use requires extra education and commitment to managing your diabetes
- Mechanical attachment may be inconvenient
- DKA (Diabetic Ketoacidosis) may develop rapidly if pump fails, tubing crimps, or needle pulls out
- Insertion site may become infected
- Many healthcare professionals are not trained in pump use
- Expensive, although pumps may be covered by private extended medical plans. Provincial medical plans also vary.
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The health information on this Web site is for general background purposes and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific conditions. Seek prompt medical attention for health care questions you have. Consult your physician before making changes to your medication, diet, fitness program or blood glucose testing schedules.