Prior to verifying bolus doses (insulin:carb ratios or correction formulas), it is necessary to verify basal rates. Once bolus doses and basal rates are confirmed, advanced pump features such as temporary basal rates and square/dual boluses can be utilized to mazimize effectiveness.

Insulin Infusion

(aka, "getting under your skin")

Insulin is delivered via some form of inserted canula or needle.

In tubed pumps the connection tubing comes in varying lengths and allows for the pump to be worn or hidden in clothing as the user desires

It is important that infusion sets be changed at least every 3 days or less as indicated by physicians order to prevent injury or scarring

In the Omnipod tubeless insulin pump the canula is built into the pod itself and inserted with a remote button press. The canula and pod are worn for up to 3 full days.

•Durable, clog-resistant tubing carries insulin from the pump to the infusion set*. •The infusion set delivers insulin into the fatty layer below the skin. •Set uses either a flexible plastic catheter (canula) or a steel needle. •Sets are almost always disconnectable near the infusion site.

Infusion Set Types

The infusion set delivers insulin into the fat layer, there has been no data to indicate that longer cannulas or needles so using the shortest length appropriate for the individual is key to allowing for diverse infusion locations on the body. and there are many different lengths, angles, insertion styles and devices available to make insulin infusion as effective, comfortable and achievable as possible

Studies have shown improved insulin absorption with angled sets and 90 degree4 cannulas tend to be more prone to occlusions or leakage of insulin, however the patient’s body make up, and physical dexterity should also be taken into consideration when making set choices.

•Infusion sets vary by: –Angle of insertion –Canula length –Plastic vs. steel –Tubing length

Infusion Set Insertion

Needle sets are manually entered in a similar way that one would insert a needle into the fat layer for injection

Teflon cannulas cover an introducer needle that is then removed and can be inserted manually or using a spring-loaded inserter.

•Soft plastic canula inserted by way of an introducer needle. •Mechanical “inserters” are available for some types of infusion sets.