Common Questions
1. I've run across conflicting information regarding how often to change my infusion set and rotating my sites. What is the recommended procedure?
The best thing to do is to discuss this with your healthcare team. However, there are some general recommendations, which you can follow:
Changing your infusion set and rotating your site is usually recommended at least every 48 hours for steel needles (ACCU-CHEK™ Rapid-D infusion set) and at least every 72 hours for the Teflon® cannula sets (ACCU-CHEK Ultraflex infusion sets or ACCU-CHEK Tender infusion sets). Studies have shown that exceeding this time frame dramatically increases the risk of infection. These recommendations are discussed in the package inserts.
To prevent lipohypertrophy, the build-up of fatty tissue which impairs insulin
absorption, it is best not to use the same spot more than once a month and to
move at least one inch from the previous site. If you notice that it takes
more and more insulin to get the same blood glucose results, this is a sign
that you may have developed lipohypertrophy. You will need to avoid those
areas and find new ones. Also, beware of low blood glucose when you start to
use brand new sites. Prevention of infection and lipohypertrophy is much
better than treating it. Once site problems start they can be challenging to
treat.
Each person is unique in their body's tolerance of infusion sets and the adhesive that holds them in place on your skin. Check your site at least twice a day for any signs of redness, pain, and swelling and troubleshoot unexplained high blood glucose levels. If any of these are present, it is best to change your set, even if you just changed it. Listen to the signals your body is sending. Then check with your doctor or educator to determine whether or not medical treatment is necessary. Site infections often progress quickly - so don't delay!