Filling an insulin pump reservoir involves several key steps to ensure accurate insulin delivery. Here’s a breakdown of how to do it, based on the information from a video tutorial on filling a MiniMed Paradigm® insulin pump:
Steps to Filling an Insulin Pump Reservoir
- Prepare the Reservoir: Ensure you have a new, sterile insulin reservoir for your pump model.
- Attach the Syringe: Attach a syringe to the reservoir.
- Fill the Reservoir with Insulin:
- Pull Down the Plunger: Pull down on the plunger to fill the reservoir to the number of insulin units you need.
- Repeat if Needed: If air bubbles are present, repeat this step. Continue pulling the plunger and pushing the insulin back into the vial to remove any air bubbles from the reservoir until they are gone.
- Prime the Reservoir: After filling, it's essential to prime the reservoir according to your pump manufacturer's instructions. This process removes any air and ensures insulin delivery.
- Insert the Filled Reservoir: Insert the reservoir into the insulin pump.
- Complete Pump Setup: Follow your pump’s prompts to finalize the new reservoir setup and start insulin delivery.
Key Points for Success
- Eliminate Air Bubbles: As highlighted in the video reference, removing air bubbles from the reservoir is crucial. Air bubbles can lead to inaccurate insulin dosing.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always refer to your insulin pump’s specific manual for precise filling instructions as there might be variations across models and brands.
- Be Precise: Measure the insulin amount accurately according to your healthcare provider's recommendations.
By following these steps, you can fill your insulin pump reservoir effectively and ensure consistent insulin delivery. Remember to consult your pump's user guide for any specifics and seek guidance from your healthcare provider or diabetes educator if you have any questions or encounter issues during the process.
