Infusion Site Management Guide

Preventing Infection

Important Points for Pump Users to Know

• Infections generally begin under the skin at the tip of the cannula or needle, not on the surface.
• Signs and symptoms of infection:
  • Elevated blood sugar
  • Redness
  • Heat
  • Lump under the skin
  • Pus
  • Pain
  • Fever
• Serious infections require surgical incision and drainage.
• Systemic antibiotics may be required for treatment; pump users should not delay in contacting their health care provider.

Steps to Take for Prevention

The pump user should:

• Always wash his or her hands.
• Keep all sterile parts from touching non-sterile surfaces.
• Disinfect site properly.
• Avoid breathing on or touching the infusion set or insertion area when prepping the site; allow antibacterial solutions to air dry for at least 60 seconds.
• Not keep site longer than recommended.
• Not reuse products unless approved on labeling.
• Not use products if the seal has been broken or if the expiration date has passed; these conditions lead to a break in the sterility of the product.
• Assure a proper seal between the dressing and the skin.
• Use a safety loop (tape a loop of tubing to the skin near the insertion site). If the tubing is accidentally pulled, the safety loop will prevent the set from being dislodged.
• Change site at the first sign of pain, swelling, discomfort, or redness.
• Inspect the site frequently for problems.

 Printable Infusion Site Management Guide (Acrobat Reader Required)