There are so many variables that contribute to insulin
absorption and sensitivity on daily basis, it can make diabetes management very
challenging. To knock out some major variables, follow these few simple rules.
1.
Never go more than 2-3 days without changing
your insertion set. No exceptions. See rule #2 for help.
2.
(TDD x 3) + 20U = reservoir fill
Find out the total daily dose (TDD) of
insulin. Multiply that by 3. Add 20U for tubing (and just incase you go HAM on
tortilla chips one day). If you were
instructed to change your insertion set every 2 days, replace the 3 with a 2.
3.
Insertion site rotation: Most people are taught
to alternate between the right and left side of their body. THIS IS WRONG. The
issue is, most people end up going right back over the area they inserted 3
days ago. That is not enough time for the site to heal. Instead, place the next
site 2 inches away from the first. Three days later, move another 2 inches the
same direction. THEN, move to the other side of your body and repeat. Your skin
will thank you and your insulin will absorb more predictably.
4.
If your insertion site hurts, change it.
5.
Bolus timing: Bolus for meals before eating. How soon before? Depends
on your blood sugar.
|
Blood Glucose
|
Bolus
timing
|
|
40-70mg/dL
|
Treat
low before starting meal
|
|
70-100mg/dL
|
Immediately
before eating
|
|
100-200mg/dL
|
10
minutes before eating
|
|
200-300mg/dL
|
20
minutes before eating
|
|
300+mg/dL
|
30
minutes before eating
|
Do you have other habits and techniques to increase
consistency in diabetes management? Please share in the comments below.