Continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion in Type 1 diabetes: patient experiences of 'living with a machine'

Abstract

Aims: The aims of this study were to provide in-depth insight into the changes that may be experienced by patients embarking on continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion and to answer the research question, what is it like to live with an insulin pump?

Methods: An in-depth, qualitative, multiple interview study of individuals with Type 1 diabetes using continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion in a secondary care setting in the south of England. Four patients (two male, two female)across the age range and with varied experience of pump use, were recruited from a specialist diabetes centre.

Results: Switching from multiple injection therapy to insulin pump therapy presents challenges in the short term.Over a longer period, use of this technology is associated with a significant improvement in quality of life for the users and also a change in the relationship between the patient and their specialist healthcare provider.

Conclusions: Insulin pump therapy has additional qualitative benefits beyond improvements in glycaemic control and reducing the risk of hypoglycaemia for people with Type 1 diabetes.