The Rage of a Failed Infusion Set Right After You Changed It

Changing an infusion set can be a frustrating experience, especially when it fails right after. This is a common issue that many people with diabetes face. A failed infusion set can cause a range of problems, from delayed insulin delivery to low blood sugar levels.

What Causes a Failed Infusion Set?

There are several reasons why an infusion set might fail right after you change it. Some common causes include:

Improper insertion: If the infusion set is not inserted correctly, it can lead to a failed infusion. This can happen if the site is not cleaned properly, or if the infusion set is not inserted at the correct angle.
Poor infusion set design: Some infusion sets may not be designed well, which can lead to a failed infusion. This can be due to a number of factors, including the size of the infusion set, the type of tubing used, or the location of the infusion site.
Skin irritation: If the skin around the infusion site is irritated, it can cause the infusion set to fail. This can happen due to a number of factors, including allergic reactions, skin conditions, or even the infusion set itself.
Insulin concentration: If the insulin concentration is too high or too low, it can affect the infusion rate and lead to a failed infusion.

Signs of a Failed Infusion Set

There are several signs that can indicate a failed infusion set, including:

Delayed insulin delivery: If the infusion set is not working correctly, it can lead to delayed insulin delivery. This can cause blood sugar levels to rise.
Low blood sugar levels: If the infusion set is not delivering insulin correctly, it can lead to low blood sugar levels.
Infusion site redness or swelling: If the infusion site is red or swollen, it can be a sign of a failed infusion.
Infusion site pain or tenderness: If the infusion site is painful or tender, it can be a sign of a failed infusion.

What to Do If Your Infusion Set Fails

If your infusion set fails, there are several steps you can take to correct the issue. These include:

Checking the infusion set for any blockages or kinks in the tubing.
Ensuring that the infusion set is inserted correctly and that the site is clean and free of irritation.
Adjusting the infusion rate to ensure that the correct amount of insulin is being delivered.
Replacing the infusion set with a new one.

Prevention is the Best Medicine

While failed infusion sets can be frustrating, there are several steps you can take to prevent them from happening in the first place. These include:

Following the manufacturer's instructions for insertion and use.
Keeping the infusion site clean and free of irritation.
Monitoring the infusion set regularly for any signs of failure.
Replacing the infusion set at regular intervals to ensure that it is working correctly.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent failed infusion sets and ensure that your insulin delivery system is working correctly. Remember, a failed infusion set can cause a range of problems, from delayed insulin delivery to low blood sugar levels. So, it's essential to take action if you notice any signs of a failed infusion set.