Infusion Site Management Guide

Infusion Set Removal

Removing the Dressing

• While in the shower, use warm water to loosen the dressing.
• Arranging site changes around a morning shower will aid in easier removal of the old set and will help to prepare the skin for insertion of a new set. Also, it may be easier to remember to do a post-site-change blood glucose test after getting ready for the day (approximately 1 hour after insertion).
• Remove the dressing by loosening all four corners and peeling it towards the center.
• As an alternative, apply baby oil or a solvent (see product list) to the edge of the dressing to loosen it and dab the skin underneath as the dressing is being removed.
• Once the dressing is loose, the skin should be kept taut while carefully removing the dressing. Firm pressure should be applied if bleeding or oozing occurs, and the site should be watched carefully for proper healing for the next 2-3 days.
• The cannula should always be inspected after removal to check for kinking or blood.
• Infusions sets and dressings should be disposed of according to local biohazard material regulations.

WARNING: AN INFUSION SET SHOULD NEVER BE REMOVED AND REINSERTED INTO ANOTHER SITE - TEACH THE PUMP USER TO ALWAYS USE A NEW INFUSION SET AND SELECT A NEW LOCATION.

Post-removal Skin Care

• Practitioners recommend an application of Bactroban Cream^® antibiotic ointment.
• Pump users with dry skin may benefit from using a moisturizer after removal of the set (proper hydration will also aid in maintaining healthy, hydrated skin).
• Some pump users develop scarring at infusion sites that does not resolve despite proper skin care. This type of skin problem is very difficult to treat, but should not interfere with insulin delivery.
• Proper skin care of areas of lipohypertrophy involves avoiding use of the area until the hypertrophy resolves.

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