The Use of Technology in Managing Diabetes in Youth Part 2—Insulin Pump Technologies: Information and Tips for the School Nurse

Abstract

Insulin pump technologies are commonly used by youth with type 1 diabetes (T1D) for intensive insulin therapy, the gold standard for T1D care. Insulin pump technologies are advancing rapidly, with new insulin pumps becoming available every year offering improvements in glycemic control. School nurses must understand the basics of insulin pump therapy and distinguish between advanced pump technologies to best support their students with T1D. This is the second article in a three-part series on the use of technology in managing diabetes in youth. The first article described continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices and provided tips for the school nurses in incorporating CGM into the student’s individualized healthcare plan. The purpose of this article is to summarize insulin pump technologies, from conventional insulin pump therapy to advanced automated insulin delivery systems and to describe keys to success with insulin pump technologies. Part 3 will focus on special considerations and problem solving related to technology use in the school setting.