[SpiritConnector]

Has anyone out there had trouble with receiving adequate training on their Medtronic insulin pump? This is the second time I've been on a medtronic pump and the second time that I've had trouble with training. After the first month I received very little (if any) help. All a trainer ever suggests to me is to change the basal settings or to set a temporary basal rate. If anyone has had this problem and has been able to remedy it, please let me know. I'm having a horrible time adjusting my settings to my menstral cycle and exercise plan.

[Funnygrl]

The trainer's job isn't to figure out your settings for you. That's your job, with your doctor's help. They're not allowed to "prescribe" settings. It's out of their scope of practice.

I recommend you keep excellent records and ask your doctor for advice. Also, read Pumping Insulin by John Walsh.

If you're actually having trouble knowing how to use the pump's features, call Minimed and ask to be retrained, which they will do.

[Gordonm]

My pump trainer 2+ years ago did help me set up the initial pmp settings. She did an OK job on training but I took it from there and learned all I could. I would not let anyone change my settings but me on the pump. I discuss it with my Dr. but I change my settings quite often.

Now I went to the same girl for my CGMS training. I had already been using it for a month by the time she had an open appointment. By the end of the training she was asking me questions about it. There was a few things she could not answer and she has been using the system. The training on the CGMS system did not help me out at all.

[patricia52]

My daughter-in-law got her pump about a month b4 the Army transferred them to NY. She recieved very little training because of the move. By experimenting with her basal, which varies from person to person and also is affected by other factors, she soon learned what worked for her. Don't give up. Just keep a log and note what worked and what did not and why it did or did not work. Soon you will be able to make the adjustments without having to really think about it. My DIL is very happy with her pump and would not go back to MDI. I am a T2 and I wish I had the control she has. She pushes a button on her pump when she has had too many carbs.
Good luck with the pump. Don't give up. It will be worth the effort.

[notme]

I had good training on using the pump and the functions. Finding the right settings came from doing basal tests and consulting with my doctor and a diabetes trainer. Do a basal test during no menstrual cycle times and again afterwards.

Good luck!

[poodlebone]

I was trained by my CDE, not a MM person, so I haven't had any problems. I do agree that the trainer's job is to just get you started. S/he is not your personal doctor or nurse and isn't supposed to offer continuing help. That's definitely a job for your own doctor or CDE. If your own team isn't helpful, find a new doctor.

[Funnygrl]

Originally Posted by patricia52

She pushes a button on her pump when she has had too many carbs.

I hope she presses a button on her pump when she has any carbs.