Troubleshooting Common Insulin Pump and CGM Errors

Troubleshooting Common Insulin Pump and CGM Errors

When it comes to managing your blood sugar levels, using an insulin pump and continuous glucose monitor (CGM) can be a game-changer. However, like any medical device, they are not immune to errors. In this article, we'll cover some common insulin pump and CGM errors and provide guidance on how to troubleshoot them.

Error 1: Insulin Pump Not Delivering Insulin

If your insulin pump is not delivering insulin, it's essential to check the following:

  • Ensure that the pump is turned on and that the batteries are not running out.
  • Check the infusion set for kinks or blockages that could be preventing insulin from flowing.
  • Make sure that the pump is set to the correct delivery mode and that the insulin dose is correct.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or pump manufacturer for assistance.

Error 2: CGM Not Reading Accurately

If your CGM is not providing accurate readings, check the following:

  • Ensure that the sensor is properly inserted and that the skin is clean and dry.
  • Make sure that the sensor is not damaged or expired.
  • Check that the sensor is calibrated correctly and that the software is up-to-date.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or CGM manufacturer for assistance.

Error 3: Insulin Pump Battery Life

If your insulin pump's battery life is not lasting as long as expected, check the following:

  • Ensure that the pump is set to the correct battery-saving mode.
  • Make sure that the pump is not being exposed to extreme temperatures.
  • Check that the pump is not being used in an area with high levels of radiation.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or pump manufacturer for assistance.

Error 4: CGM Sensor Adhesion Issues

If your CGM sensor is not adhering properly to your skin, check the following:

  • Ensure that the skin is clean and dry before applying the sensor.
  • Make sure that the sensor is applied correctly and that the adhesive is not damaged.
  • Check that the sensor is not being used on sensitive skin or in an area with a lot of hair.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or CGM manufacturer for assistance.

Error 5: Insulin Pump Programming Issues

If your insulin pump is not programming correctly, check the following:

  • Ensure that the pump is set to the correct mode and that the insulin dose is correct.
  • Make sure that the pump is calibrated correctly and that the software is up-to-date.
  • Check that the pump is not being used in an area with high levels of radiation.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or pump manufacturer for assistance.

Error 6: CGM Interference with Other Devices

If your CGM is interfering with other medical devices, check the following:

  • Ensure that the CGM is set to the correct frequency and that the sensor is not being affected by external sources.
  • Make sure that the CGM is not being used in an area with high levels of radiation.
  • Check that the CGM is not being affected by other medical devices, such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or CGM manufacturer for assistance.

Error 7: Insulin Pump Leak Issues

If your insulin pump is leaking, check the following:

  • Ensure that the pump is properly sealed and that there are no cracks or damage to the reservoir.
  • Make sure that the pump is not being exposed to extreme temperatures.
  • Check that the pump is not being used in an area with high levels of humidity.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or pump manufacturer for assistance.

Error 8: CGM Calibration Issues

If your CGM is not calibrating correctly, check the following:

  • Ensure that the sensor is properly inserted and that the skin is clean and dry.
  • Make sure that the sensor is not damaged or expired.
  • Check that the sensor is calibrated correctly and that the software is up-to-date.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or CGM manufacturer for assistance.

Error 9: Insulin Pump Reservoir Issues

If your insulin pump's reservoir is not holding insulin properly, check the following:

  • Ensure that the reservoir is properly filled and that the insulin is not expired.
  • Make sure that the pump is set to the correct delivery mode and that the insulin dose is correct.
  • Check that the pump is not being exposed to extreme temperatures.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or pump manufacturer for assistance.

Error 10: CGM Glucose Data Not Matching Other Devices

If your CGM glucose data is not matching other devices, check the following:

  • Ensure that the CGM is set to the correct frequency and that the sensor is not being affected by external sources.
  • Make sure that the CGM is calibrated correctly and that the software is up-to-date.
  • Check that the CGM is not being affected by other medical devices, such as pacemakers or implantable cardioverter-defibrillators.
  • If the issue persists, contact your healthcare provider or CGM manufacturer for assistance.

In conclusion, troubleshooting common insulin pump and CGM errors requires patience, persistence, and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined above, you can identify and resolve issues quickly and get back to managing your blood sugar levels with confidence.