omnipod dash sites

[michelejane]

Hi,
I only started an Omnipod Dash pump yesterday, I had put it on my abdomen during the online training, and was shocked to see blood coming from the pod this afternoon. I had to quickly grab the leaflets etc to remind me how to do a pod change which I did on my arm. I found this tricky to manage applying it with one hand only - can anyone give me helpful advice please on easier pod changes, and comfortable sites?! my freestyle sensor currently is on one of my thighs, to give my arm a rest.
Thank you
Michele

 

[admc26]

Hi @michelejane. Not to worry! Omnipods are definitely a learning curve! I haven't got the Dash but have the original (I believe the difference is that the Dash pods are smaller and there's the fancy new PDM!) I tend to to place my pods on my stomach and arms. Don't fret too much about the bleeding - this happens from time to time and is usually when the site becomes irritated (like lying on it in your sleep). I tend to try and use the further left and right sides of the stomach if this happens as they tend not to irritate as easily. In terms of arms, I had someone help me apply a pod to my arms for the first few months, but can now apply one-handed if there is a mirror nearby. You can also use your legs, and I was informed when I got my pod that you can use the lower parts of the back (where there are fatty, fleshy bits - though I'm not sure if you can with the new system)

How are you finding the Dash's PDM? Have you had any previous pumps or is this your first?

I hope this helps 🙂

 

[michelejane]

Thank you so much for this! I was trying so hard not to lie on that side, I can see how I shall need to rotate sites for both the pod and the libre. All practice I guess!

 

[michelejane]

Hi @michelejane. Not to worry! Omnipods are definitely a learning curve! I haven't got the Dash but have the original (I believe the difference is that the Dash pods are smaller and there's the fancy new PDM!) I tend to to place my pods on my stomach and arms. Don't fret too much about the bleeding - this happens from time to time and is usually when the site becomes irritated (like lying on it in your sleep). I tend to try and use the further left and right sides of the stomach if this happens as they tend not to irritate as easily. In terms of arms, I had someone help me apply a pod to my arms for the first few months, but can now apply one-handed if there is a mirror nearby. You can also use your legs, and I was informed when I got my pod that you can use the lower parts of the back (where there are fatty, fleshy bits - though I'm not sure if you can with the new system)

How are you finding the Dash's PDM? Have you had any previous pumps or is this your first?

I hope this helps 🙂

I have had a few pumps before this one, previous pump was the insight which was quite slow when programming. I'm sure the pod will be fantastic once I get used to it!

 

[admc26]

Thank you so much for this! I was trying so hard not to lie on that side, I can see how I shall need to rotate sites for both the pod and the libre. All practice I guess!

Not at problem! Always here to help! All practice indeed - find what works for you and stick to that I would say! I find that if the pump isn't uncomfortable to lie on then it should be fine, but if it feels sore or anything like that then try lying in a different position.

Keep us updated on how you're getting on and finding the Dash! My diabetic nurse tried to show me a demo model a few weeks ago but it wasn't charged so am intrigued to see how you find it!

 

[michelejane]

will do. like everything you get so used to doing, when it changes it takes a bit of rethinking. Good for me to do though!
I just need to mentally plan which sites for both libre and Dash plus clothes for those days so looser trouser legs for libre and sleeves for the Dash until I am more confident with attaching it. Just little issues.
I like that it tells you how much insulin is 'on board' as I have always had the tendency to chase my tail instead of waiting for the insulin to do its job.