Infusion Site Management » Special Populations

Infusion Site Management Guide

Special Populations

Overview
Pump Users with impaired vision or dexterity problems will require extra training to ensure proper site placement and maintenance.

General Tips for Pump Users with Impaired Vision and/or Dexterity Problems

Priming. With the needle cover still in place, the pump user should hold the end of the set over the back of the hand to confirm that the tubing is completely primed once a drop of insulin can be felt and smelled on the back of the hand.
Insertion. Using an adhesive wipe will help the pump user identify the selected, cleansed area of insertion by feeling for the "tacky" skin that remains after an adhesive wipe is used.
Reconnecting. Most infusion sets have an audible click that the pump user can use to verify that the set has been properly reconnected.

Tips for Specific Infusion Sets

Benefits of the ACCU-CHEK^™ Rapid-D Infusion Set

Primes as an entire unit; therefore, requiring less steps to prepare the infusion set.
Has easy-to-remove paper backing with tabs that can be grasped with the fingers or a device.
Has a handle on top that is easy to grip securely to assist in insertion.
Uses a steel needle infusion set with a 90° insertion; the straight insertion and no ability to kink the needle allows for a "no mistake insertion."
Has an easy twisting motion and audible click to confirm a proper connection of the set and tubing.
Has a "pig tail" connection that allows for an easier connect and disconnect when the set is placed in an "unseen" area.

Has a large introducer needle cover that is designed to fit tightly with needle for easy disposal.
Has a blue handle that is easy to find and grasp for insertion.
Has tabs for easy location and removal of the paper backing.
Has an easy 90° insertion.
Has ridges at the connection point to easily locate the area to disconnect.

Has a large base unit that is easy to handle.
Has ridges located at the connection point to identify the area to disconnect.
Has a rounded side, that is placed up, and a flat side, that is placed down, allowing only one option for proper reconnection.
This set may be especially helpful for lean individuals.
This set requires finer technique and may not be the most appropriate set for pump users with impaired vision or dexterity problems.