Know-How: How an Insulin Machine Works

Diabetes is a chronic medical condition that affects approximately 11.6% of the US population. While type 1 diabetes usually presents in childhood or early adulthood, type 2 diabetes can occur at any age, depending on various factors such as age, weight, genetic disposition, and lifestyle choices.

Managing diabetes in all forms is a challenging and often intricate process, so it often requires various medical devices and machines, such as insulin pumps or insulin machines.

In this blog, we’ll dive into how an insulin machine works to help regulate insulin levels in people with diabetes.

What is an Insulin Machine?

An insulin machine, also known as an insulin pump, is a small, portable device that delivers insulin to the body. It provides an alternative to the constant need for insulin injections.

Insulin machines serve as a lifeline for those living with diabetes, especially type 1, by supplying a steady flow of insulin into the body. It can also be useful for those with type 2 diabetes who require insulin.

There are different types of insulin machines or pumps. Examples include traditional insulin pumps, patch insulin pumps, and closed-loop pumps.

How Does an Insulin Machine Operate?

The operational process of an insulin pump can be broken down into several key steps:

Step 1: Setting Up the Pump

The traditional insulin pump is composed of a few key parts:

• A screen for display
• A compartment for the insulin reservoir
• A thin cannula or tube that connects to the body

The initial setup involves filling the insulin reservoir and attaching the infusion set, which includes the cannula that is inserted just under the skin in body parts like the stomach, thigh, or buttocks.

Step 2: Programming Basal Rate

The pump is programmed to deliver a basal rate of insulin throughout the day and night, replicating the steady release of insulin in a non-diabetic person’s body.

This basal rate is determined by the patient’s healthcare provider and can be customized based on the individual’s daily routine and varying insulin needs.

Step 3: Administering Bolus Doses

In addition to the basal rate, the user manually administers bolus doses of insulin at mealtimes or when blood glucose levels are higher than desired.

The size of these boluses is calculated based on the carbohydrate content of the meal and the person’s current blood sugar level.

Step 4: Adjusting Insulin Delivery

While insulin pumps do not automatically adjust insulin levels, some advanced models can modify basal rates based on readings from a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). This feature allows for more precise control of blood glucose levels.

Step 5: Regular Maintenance

Proper use of an insulin pump requires regular maintenance. The insulin in the pump needs to be replaced according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and the infusion site should be changed every two to three days to avoid infection and ensure effective insulin absorption.

Benefits of Using an Insulin Machine

Insulin pumps offer several advantages over traditional insulin injection methods, such as:

• Flexibility: Insulin pumps allow for more flexibility in lifestyle, as they enable precise dosing. They also can adjust insulin based on factors like exercise, stress, illness, or changes in routine.

• Better Blood Sugar Control: By delivering insulin continuously, pumps can help avoid sudden highs and lows in blood sugar levels.

• Fewer Injections: Thanks to the innovative design of the insulin pump, which administers insulin via a single insertion point that only requires changing every few days, it significantly reduces the need for frequent use of insulin syringes or insulin pen needles. This is a major benefit for those who previously relied on multiple daily injections using an insulin pen or insulin needles.

Advancements in pump technology have led to the addition of new features in some pumps. These include:

• Hypoglycemia suspension, which stops insulin delivery when your blood sugar drops too low
• Touch screens for easy navigation
• Waterproofing up to a certain depth for worry-free use around water
• Wireless capability for convenience and ease of use

Insulin Machine at Americare Diabetes

At Americare Diabetes, we offer a wide variety of top-quality insulin pumps, such as Omnipod insulin pumps and Tandem insulin pumps, to help you manage your diabetes with confidence. We also offer other diabetes supplies such as continuous glucose monitors, glucose meters, and other diabetes testing supplies like insulin pen needles, test strips, lancets, and lancing devices.

Reach out to us today at (866) 400-9565 and discover how Americare Diabetes can help you transform your diabetes management. Your journey to better health starts here!