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Chapter 15 Troubleshooting Guidelines
It’s a good idea to set up a troubleshooting procedure to use anytime you suspect something
might be wrong. Work with your healthcare team to establish guidelines in the event of a
problem.
Hypoglycemia
Low blood sugar is a risk for anyone using insulin therapy. You may experience one or more
of the following symptoms:
Shakiness; rapid heart rate; nervousness; perspiration; cold, clammy skin; weakness;
blurred or double vision; sudden hunger; tingling in your hands, lips, or tongue;
headache and confusion.
If you experience symptoms of hypoglycemia, you should immediately eat a quick-acting
carbohydrate (glucose tablets, juice, or hard candy).
If your BG is abnormally low, do not attempt to program the pump yourself. Get help.
Treat Hypoglycemia immediately!
Rule of 15
• Consume 15 grams of quick-acting carbohydrate
• Wait 15 minutes
• Recheck BG
• If BG is < 70 mg/dL (3.9 mmol/L), repeat above
Troubleshooting hypoglycemia:
Possible Cause of Low BG Suggested Solution
INSULIN PUMP
Basal rate programmed incorrectly
Check times and rates, remember to review basal programs when
making any changes.
Clock time incorrect Reset clock to current time, being careful to check AM & PM.
Pump exposed to MRI
Disconnect from pump. Call Pump Support 1-877-767-7373.
(Outside the US, Canada & Puerto Rico, contact your local Animas
distributor.)
FOOD INTAKE
Bolus too large Check bolus amounts and times.
Bolus only enough to lower your BG to normal level.
Do not be aggressive with 2-3 hour after meal BG correction
boluses unless you are ill.
Low carbohydrate intake for bolus Measure carbohydrates accurately.
See dietitian for carb counting review.
May need recalculation of Insulin to Carbohydrate ratio (I:C);
consult with healthcare team.
Improper timing of bolus Match timing of bolus with intake of food.
Check BG prior to meal bolus and adjust accordingly.
Alcohol consumption May cause hypoglycemia.
Eat food when drinking alcohol.
Be cautious with bedtime bolus.
Always check BG before going to bed.
Check BG at 3 am.
Consult healthcare team.
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