Understanding Insulin Pumps | AJP

With a new choice on the market, we examine what pharmacists need to know about insulin pumps for diabetic patients

Since July 1, 2016, subsidized National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS) products [19659003] More than 5,000 community pharmacies in Australia are now access points NDSS

NDSS products include Blood Glucose Test Strips, Urine Strips, Insulin Pen Needles and Syringes, and Consumable Supplies. insulin pumps. ] With the changes in insulin pump dispensing mode, pharmacists are now playing a bigger role in supporting people who use the insulin pump to provide advice and supplies.

The Pharmacy of Australia Recommends Pharmacists To:

• Identify the Different Components of an Insulin Pump and How They Work
• Describe the Clinical Benefits of Insulin Pump Treatment Describe the Benefits of a pharmacy supplying insulin pump therapy consumables
• Explaining the Recommended Frequency for Changing Tubing and Infusion Tanks
• Identify individuals who may benefit from use of an endocrinologist or a diabetes educator for an insulin pump [19659008] Identifying common problems with insulin pumps and their consumables

An insulin pump is a small battery-powered electronic device that contains an insulin reservoir, used by people with diabetes.

It's the size of a cell phone and is worn 24 hours a day, according to Diabetes Australia.

The pump, which is carried to the outside of the body, is programmed to deliver insulin into the body through thin plastic tubes known as the infusion set. The infusion set includes a thin needle or a flexible cannula that is inserted just below the skin where it stays in place for two to three days

Whenever food is consumed, the pump is programmed . to provide a quick-acting insulin boost in the body similar to the way the pancreas does in people without diabetes.

An insulin pump delivers insulin in two ways: continuously (basal) and on demand (bolus).

Most pumps calculate the amount of insulin for each meal or snack based on the insulin / carbohydrate ratio programmed into the pump. This ratio is calculated with a diabetes educator or endocrinologist.

"The insulin administration by a pump mimics a natural insulin profile more accurately than other devices, which can improve glycemic control and reduce the risk of insomnia." hypoglycemia. Consultant Pharmacist at Amcal + Coffs Harbor, NSW

"The operation of an insulin pump does require significant training and expertise, while being diligent with blood glucose monitoring. Insulin pump is not for everyone.

"It's also important that your younger patients and their parents / caregivers know that a government program is subsidizing the cost of insulin pump treatment at home." Australians eligible under "

Pharmacists need to understand the 3-4 pumps available in the market so they can provide information / advice to patients accordingly," says Ypsomed Australia, who recently launched the new mylife system YpsoPump , its first insulin pump on the market

The other three brands of insulin pumps in Australia are Medtronic, Animas and Roche Diagnostics. [196] 59003] Although the YpsoPump has just launched, a number of people have been experimenting with it since April and comments "Diabetes educators from most major centers have received certification in the new device and are ready to train new patients, "said the organization. Ypsomed said.

"Pumps are now available to meet the demand of people wanting to switch to new technology."

The main difference between the YpsoPump and the existing insulin pumps on the market is the touch interface that modernizes Mr. Tom

is also smaller and lighter than some of the old insulin pumps currently on the market.

"The YpsoPump works with its own infusion set and its own reservoirs and will require the user to purchase this new equipment.These items are now available at NDSS access points. [19659003] "There are slight differences between these consumables and their predecessors, so close contact between patients and their diabetes educator is recommended during a transition period to ensure effective insulin delivery. ] The Guild of Pharmacists offers a free pharmacist course that examines the role of pharmacy in insulin pump therapy and the provision of insulin pump supplies.

Learn more about Type 1 Diabetic Insulin Pumps