Insulin Pump Therapy in Nursing Practice: Patient Education, Glycemic Monitoring, and Clinical Safety
Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus affects over 500 million people globally, with type 1 diabetes requiring lifelong insulin therapy. Insulin pump therapy, or continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII), has evolved as a cornerstone for intensive insulin management, offering improved glycemic control and flexibility compared to multiple daily injections.
Aim: To explore the clinical significance, operational principles, and nursing interventions associated with insulin pump therapy, emphasizing patient education and safety.
Methods: A comprehensive review of historical developments, device components, insulin delivery mechanisms, and evidence-based nursing practices was conducted, integrating clinical trials and guidelines to outline best practices for inpatient and outpatient care.
Results: CSII improves glycemic control, reduces hypoglycemia risk, and enhances patient satisfaction. Advanced features such as bolus calculators, auto-mode algorithms, and predictive low-glucose suspend systems further optimize outcomes. However, therapy introduces risks including infusion-site complications, rapid-onset hyperglycemia, and diabetic ketoacidosis during delivery interruptions. Nursing interventions—such as structured education, infusion-site monitoring, and contingency planning—are critical for safety.
Conclusion: Insulin pump therapy represents a clinically significant advancement in diabetes care, requiring interprofessional collaboration and vigilant nursing oversight to maximize benefits and minimize risks.
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Authors
Copyright (c) 2025 Sultan Falah Sultan Al-Qahtani, Zahrah Hussein Shabani, Mada Mohammad Al-Otaibj, Sultan Falah Sultan Al-Qahtani, Shaykhah Rasheed Binmozan, Manal Ghazi Alharthi, Khulud Abdullah Aldosseri, Areej Mahboub Al Samti, Badr Talal Boydr Alanizi

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