I was just diagnosed a year ago as T1 and the diabetic education where I live is so limited and God-awful. I was supposed to go through training after getting my pump but when I called in to let them know I was ready to schedule it, they had no idea what I was talking about! So glad you have these videos out. Thank you so much.
So my diabetic educator trained me on my tslim 3 days ago. Today was my first solo site change and all that I learned 3 days ago during training was forgotten. It was like a million steps! Thanks for making this video. I used it to help me put my site on just now. I had some small difficulties but it was just due to the awkwardness and newness of it all. But I successfully did it! Thanks a million. Now to wait and see if I really did it right. I’m sure my dexcom will start yelling at me if I didn’t. 😂
Dear Michelle, I have had T1DM since age 11, now 51. Just changed from Medtronic to Tandem. Was just thinking how brilliant it would have been to have had someone like you ( young, fit and positive) doing these sorts of videos when I was a teenager....
Hi Michelle! Just wanted to thank you for this video. I've been a diabetic for over 20 years, however I've only been on the t:slim X2 for two weeks. I follow this guide each time I change the pump. It is really well done!! You have made a confusing process for a beginner simple, and clear. I can't thank you enough! I hope you guys are safe and healthy. Enjoy the rest of your summer!
Thank you for the tip about how to separate the used needles from all the plastic junk, so you can safely recycle the plastic. So simple & I never thought of it.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart Michelle! What an amazing video showing so much detail! I Love it so much! You make it so easy and your step-by-step instructions showing us as you go are amazing!!! I am so grateful for your video and the gift you give us by posting it! This is my first change and I had forgotten lots :). You reminded me everything my Diabetes Educator shared and made it super easy and fast!
I was briefly trained by tandem dealer, than spent 5 minutes with my doctor who just gave me my settings and that was it - after 5 years on MDI, I was sent home to figure out the switch to the pump on my own. So obviously, I did my first ever site insertion watching your video, one step after the other, THANK YOU!
Hi Michelle…I just started using the TandemTslim 2 weeks ago. I had my 3 hr training but was still very stressed when it came time to do my first change. I watched your video and now each time I change I watch it. It is very helpful to me. Step by step instructions is exactly what I needed. Had a few difficulties but am getting the hang of it. There’s so many steps but I’m learning. I otherwise love the tandem pump. Thank you for your help.
I’ve only been using the t:slim X2 for a few weeks with the same tubing you demonstrated. From the beginning I’ve had trouble cocking the spring for the insertion. I stumbled on giving the mechanism a slight twist as I pull it up and that has seemed to alleviate the difficulty I was having. Nice presentation.
WOW I've seen a few of your videos and you are extremely helpful. I'm just now getting approved for a pump. The T:Slim was recommended as well as the Omnipod but I'm not sure my MEDicare Part D will be the best option since Pods are part D not Part B. Love your videos. I was running 600 as a Type 2 for a year and my pancreas had stopped several years ago. I had allergic reactions to long acting insulin but can tolerate Lispro very well. My prognosis was not very good as they told me I wouldn't be here much longer w/o insulin multiple times this year. I've gone from 600 to 91 on 3 injections daily of 10 units but to stay stable I need a pump. I subscribed so I can follow you on your journey and your journey is so helpful for me as someone just starting into this .. Thank you so much Michelle for your detailed videos and sharing of your life with diabetes.
Thank you for this! I'm a 10yr T2 diabetic. Dr has tried to get me into insulin for a few years, but I heavily resisted due to extreme needle phobia and other concerns. It took a lot of work to achieve an a1c of 7.4-8.6. Now I had a heart attack and needed bypass and hospital and surgeon have me no option but insulin. Now in the last 45 days in seeing a GMI of 6.3 with only slightly increasing exercise. I had a life event now that made me come to the realization that I'm done playing and willing to do insulin, but I want /need a pump for even better control and less needless than MDI!
Finished my first cartridge on my new Tslim! Woke up for work at 430am and watched your video to help me load up cartridge #2!!! Thank you so much. LOVE your videos!!!
I'm a brand new user of this excellent pump system. Today is my first time changing my site and filling the cartridge. Your clear instructions will help me enormously. Thank you :o)
Something I've noticed helps is to leave the old site on until you are sure the new one is working properly, or using the alcohol swab to sanitize the old site if you do remove it immediately
Dr. Michelle - Thanks so much for your videos. I just switched two months ago from 12 years on Medtronic Revel to the T-Slim 2 so your videos have been a big help. I have a Dexcom G6 CGM, so I agree with you that compatibility is a huge plus of the T-Slim. What really rattles my cage is the fact that Tandem has invested so much in their technology for this $5,000 pump but they forgot about the basics of customer service by providing a thoroughly useless (and dangerous) 50-cent clip on the case. You noted in your video that it's popped off your bra a few times. It's popped off my construction belt several times and yanked the set right out of me. Very dangerous. It's impossible to fasten to pajamas at night so I end up sleeping on it rather than the other way around. Somebody at Tandem's product design dept. needs a serious wake-up call. Anyway, you are the bomb! Keep those video tips coming. So grateful....David near SF.
I just started a pump, and by extension the Tandem, and I already agree lol. I've only had it for one night technically, and sleeping with it is going to take some getting used to. However, my sugars have already improved, I haven't risen passed 190 all day 😭 Right now I'm feeling low (I'm 94, but it went up from 80), so idk if anything I type makes sense, but I agree with you!
Thank u for your visual explanation, reading the instructions over and over, but thank god for TH-cam university, found your site as well as a few others, who provide personable information on the TX2, and site preparation... with your video assistance, I set up my TX2 and applied it before my training.. I was in the Omnipod system (great wireless system) but due to insurance changes, needed to switch to a wired system, so I chose the Tandem over the Metronix....new device means apprehensions of installation, until I’m used to the systematic and daily changes, thanks Michelle, u made it easy...
🙂Michelle your video is excellent! I was really nervous to do this for the first time, but thanks to you being such a demonstrator I was able to do it so easily. Thank-you and Thank-you!
I have never used a pump before always had the flex pens ( Diabetic since 2016) but I finally took the leap and switched this was my first time ever attempting to put on my tandem pump and it was a success! Thank you so much this video really helped me 😊
So I just started the Tandem t:slimX2 pump after using the medtronic paradigm for years. I went through the instructions with a live coach to get me started, but in a few days it was time for me to change my set-ALL BY MYSELF!! I began to get very nervous and anxious. Since I TH-cam for answers to many other things, I thought why not try to see if there was a tutorial I could follow. Michelle's was the best! She went through the change step by step and made it very easy for me to follow. I was a success and began feeling more confident about changing my site with my new pump.
Just want to say thank you it was the first time that I had to do it by myself and I was a little nervous but you made it smooth and easy thanks again xoxo
Great tutorial I've been on the tslim about 4 years so I'm very familiar the process it was definitely nice watching someone other than myself doing it ,,,,so the reason for my comment is because your comment about being a diabetic accumulating piles of trash when changing out your infusion site so I figured id share what I do to help with the trash clean up ,,so what I've done when I was first put on the pump and recieved a 6 month supply of cartridges and infusion sets and what I do is get a box of sandwich bags and put one of each piece into a bag so it kinda makes it a little portable site change tool bag so inside the bag is the cartridge infusion set syringe and needle and once your done changing out your site everything can go into the sandwich bag and tossed out hopefully that makes sense to someone thanks for listening
Thanks, Michelle. I am a former Animas -> Medtronic -> now t-slimmer. Cutting over from the Gurardian G3 to Dexcom G6 CGM. You are a wonderful inspiration and easy to follow fellow T1D. Love your vids. New subscriber!!
I just got my t-slim today! I was hoping to learn everything on TH-cam and just do it myself without the diabetes educator, but now I’m a little overwhelmed and worried. I think I have everything all set up. I may try tomorrow
Sue Christou it's not hard! Din't let fear get in your way. It seems like a lot but once you do it it becomes routine. And realize a youtube video narration of the steps is longer than it actually takes! Promise you will love it!
I have to say that I've been on medtronic ronic pumps for a long time and I switched to tslim so I could use the Dexcom G6 and because I felt like the scream was more user-friendly for me. I will say though in all honesty that I cannot stand all of the parts that need to be used to change an infusion set and the time is 10 to 15 minutes as opposed to less than 2 for me with my Medtronic pumps. I also feel like I have such weird changes with doing the same thing that I wonder if the mechanism is actually turning accurately, or there is something that happens with where you put the needle in to fill it on the Tx2. Sometimes I go to put the insulin in and my friends will not go down and I have to move it two or three times before it will take the insulin and there are times when I hear an audible like crackling noise that sounds like the peace inside is expanding because it's being filled that hole little mechanism to seems very arcade to me I wish they would do it the way Medtronic does. I want the Medtronic pump with the T slim screen and the Dexcom G6 compatibility
thank youuuu. my mom is out of town for a few days and she usually helps me and my dad couldn’t figure out why the site was peeling off when you remove the applicator. turns out all we needed was to hold it differently and press on the sides. tysm 💓💓💓💓💓
I got training in using mine on Dec. 7th (2021) and have found that I feel a lot better with how it controls my blood sugar. The Tslim is a great little machine.
Just started using the Tslim and received my 1st prescription of insulin in the vials... 3 vials cost me $985 US Dollars.... I live in Tennessee... Pay it or die...ridiculous! Thanks for the informative video, helped a bunch!
@Cerus98 The cost for 3 vials at Walmart was $985.... Doesn't matter if I paid, if insurance paid or if a stranger paid the bill, insulin is too expensive and people are dying because they can't afford it and many ration their insulin. Just because insurance pays a portion doesn't mean 3 vials didn't cost $985...
@Cerus98 you must not be a type 1 diabetic or you would know that's exactly what 3 vials of insulin cost. I get the exact same prescription filled every 30 days at Walmart in Tennessee, and $985 is the cost.
@Cerus98 I'm guessing your somehow associated and benefiting from profits made from the sale of insulin or insulin related supplies? Yes I have insurance, and no I am not pro-socialized medicine. But, due to the greed of pharmacuetical companies, people who require life saving drugs are dying because they cannot afford these drugs. Even with health insurance, I'm spending roughly 25 percent of my income on health insurance/medical supplies. Insurance, drugs and healthcare is no longer affordable for a large percentage of Americans, and the affordable Care act is partly to blame.
@Cerus98 you make some good points. I don't want to turn this into something political, but our medical system is also being overburdened with illegals that overwhelm our emergency rooms and never pay for the services and medicine. Those losses have to be paid by someone, and the cost is passed on to those that pay. So much fraud and abuse that it's overwhelming. The healthcare situation in this country is in a mess, and it's above my educational level to even begin to give advice for solutions. Appreciate the conversation, it's good to hear different points of view.
I just started my tandem control IQ 3 days ago.This was a good video! Summarized everything in one! The curve ball is knowing when the pump isn’t going to dose you on the third day
@TheSte4991 Can you explain that "curve ball"? Does the pump just stop delivering after a certain time, or does it keep going until it runs out of insulin? Been on Medtronic pumps for 30+ years, and thinking about the TSlim. I realize the recommended time for a site change is 2-3 days, but I have NEVER done that, and just filled the pump with 300 units and kept it on until the pump warns me that the reservoir is low (usually 6 days or so). I'd hate to have the pump just "time-out" on me, and waste a reservoir full of insulin.
I am new on insulin pump after being type 1 over 18 years. And I just started using Omnipod and I am very very happy with that especially I don’t have tubes all around my body and it’s way easy then others I guess
Wow! That's definitely a process for a site change. I'm sure it gets easier the longer you have to do it. My Omnipod takes less than 5 minutes (may have to time it to be sure). But hey, it's a great pump from what I hear so I guess it's worth it.
Yes it's definitely a longer site change! It's faster than the length of this video, since I took more time to describe the process, but it's not faster than 5 min. The Omnipod looks super easy to change :)
@@MichelleLord HI Michelle, I am an active adult and my Endo doctor advised using the Omnipod system, I have been on it for 3 years. I just do not comprehend being active and having an IV tube to watch out for. Omnipod everything is in the pump itself. Thanks for the video and very well done
Thanks for the video!! This pump looks a lot slimmer than the medtronic pumps!! I'm on the Medtronic pump now but I am frustrated with it. At first I was excited because the because the auto mode but medtronic's CGM system stinks! The first couple days were great but the transmitter started having trouble sending data to the pump so in the first 2 weeks I had to get 2 new transmitters from medtronic. Every night my wife and I were woke up from alarms going off on the pump about the sensors/transmitter losing connection so about 2 months of this I finally gave up on their CGM. Now I just have to wait 3 years for my warrantee to expire before my insurance company will cover a new pump. Can't wait to make the move to the tslim and the dexcom CGM.
Thank you for this video. I recently divorced Medtronic after the miserable 670G. Been on a TSlim for 6 days now. There are a lot more steps in changing infusion sites! I need to watch these videos during a few more site changes to get the steps down. T1 since 1985, using pumps for about 20-yrs.
Great content, thanks for creating. I watched your Dexcom G6 10day video as well since i just started using mine. Living in Southeast US provides plenty of adhesion challenges during the summer. Note if you ever need extra help keeping your insulin pump sites adhered you can also use the same IV prep wipe you used for your Dexcom G6. I do not worry about wiping in a circle/donut since the insulin site canulas are more robust than the sensor filaments. I'll be switching to the t-slim from 670G in OCT!
After 25+ years on a Medtronic pump, I started using a t:slim x2 a week ago… best decision ever! I have to say, though, I prefer Medtronic’s Quickset infusion sets and reservoirs; they’re much easier to load and insert. Since set/site change is every three days, I can deal with the Autosoft 90 versus Medtronic’s pump!😊
Great video! I switched from the Animas Vibe to the t:slim X2 2 days ago. The Tandem rep at Northwestern Memorial Hospital had a 2-hour class where she helped me and 3 other newbies program the pump, fill cartridges and insert infusion sets. Tomorrow will be my first solo site change. My T1D diagnosis was in 1963, and over the years I have worn 3 Medtronic, 1 Asante SNAP and 1 Animas Vibe pump. So far, I am impressed with the t:slim's user friendliness and Dexcom G6 integration. Your videos are informative and fun to watch. Congratulations on completing your PhD!
I just got put on this exact type of pump! My first site change is tomorrow, and I was admittedly worried about how to rip the site out lmao. I also got switched from Libre to Dexcom, so I've ripped needles out of my skin before, I don't know why I was nervous lmaoo. This video helped me, thank you! I wish there was a way to reduce the amount of plastic used, but I also understand the purpose of each part. I'm sure in the future the waste used will me reduced, but It still feels weird seeing just how much plastic is involved.
Thank you for this video! My kiddo wants to try new infusion sets for her tslim(we have been truesteel). Needed to just see how the 90 worked but found more info and some refreshers!! I'm definitely gunna try a few new things I saw here. I like these videos because my kiddo can also watch them and know she's not alone and start to learn!! ❤
I am always blown away by the amount of waste in the packaging of pump and CGM associated items. I no longer use Libre sensors but I commend Abbott for actively pursuing and paying for their products to be returned to them for reuse/recycle. Hopefully more manufacturers follow that mindset.
It is shocking. Metal and plastic mixed together. Paperwork. Cardboard. It is the metal spring that cannot be taken out which is so hard to believe that they don’t have a way to reclaim and recycle.
Thank you for this! very helpful- this will be my second time changing my site with the t;slim x2 so happy with is so far! tomorrow the Control Iq gets activated.
Hi Michelle Thank you for the tutorial. I have to go to T-slim training next week. I have been using the insulin pens for a couple of years. Did you have trouble regulating your blood sugar before the pump? I have that trouble now and I hope with the pump and the Dexcom sensor it will maintain my glucose level somewhere close to normal. It looks like this video is at least a year old, have you had any problems since you started using the t-slim? Thanks again.
18 years on MDI, I'm a week and a bit away from an appointment to look at pump options etc. Can't focus on anything else right now. I think I want the Dana RS as I can use AndroidAPS with it. No more worrying about dead-in-bed syndrome from split lantus injections
I get frustrated with all teh packaging from the dexcom sensor, the pump supplies don't offend me as much-there just less plastic I guess. That precious insulin comment made me smile, I feel the same way, when I purge the bubbles from the syringe, I do so back into the vial of insulin---and then I don't get that smell of insulin either. saves every drop!
Yes, The TSlim X2 Refill is one of the biggest annoyances of this pump. It is complicated and tedious.The TSlim insulin management with the Dexcom is still the best though.
Can you do a video showing where you can apply it to multiple sites please? Like thigh, back, hip? I’m not very comfortable with these areas and need to give my abdomen a rest because of scar tissue. Any advice would help or illustration.
Hi Michelle, I'm glad to see these videos, I'm going to make the change from a Minimed 460 G with sensor soon to a tandem Tslim as well. Do you have any videos discussing perhaps the difference, what it's like to sleep with the Tslim as opposed to the Minimed? I'd love to hear if there is a bit more peace from all the sensor alarm events that happen on the Minimed. ;-)
Deciding b/t upgrading to Medtronic 770/780G, or switching to T:Slim/Dexcom. Thankful for your insights. Wondering if you’ve reviewed the info on the 770/780G coming out.
Thank you I have been diabetic for 16 years . I also have the DexcomG6,Is it true that when u installed your pump it needs to be 3 inches from DexcomG6. I’m really tired of being all mark in my belly
I am a bit different. When filling the tube when the insulin hits th tube I flick away. Get air out. And it takes about 13.5 units. And no air. I flick too much
It's so doable yet they don't 😕. I'm on the libre 2 and every applicator I throw out is just heartbreaking. They could make it out of PLA (polylactic acid - bio plastic) and it would disappear forever in landfill. But they don't. Mental
Thanks for the video! I will be starting t:slim X2 in 2 weeks, I just got approved (it's a little longer process in the USA). I'm on insulin injections right now. From what my endocronologist has said to me, it sounds like the pump will make it easier to manage my blood sugar level. I do my best to try to stay on a schedule to have meals and snacks at the same time to try to manage my blood sugar levels but it's hard, the pump sounds like it will make my life easier! It's going to be a lot to get used to, looks like changing the cartridges seems tricky. Sounds like picking the spot for the site can be tedious knowing that you have to do it every 3 days, it's kind of the same with injections trying to pick a spot, I bruise really easily
Brian, I hope you've found you love being on a pump and like everything there are drawbacks, but the convenience and better control far outweigh those. As far as insulin pump sites, abdomen, side/back and hip...anywhere there's a little extra skin should work. If you haven't already, i suggest creating small backup pump site change kits with prep wipes and sites inside a ziplock bag...for the car, backpack, office as it never fails you'll need to change or accidentally rip one off at an inopportune time. Best of luck!
What if the infusion set I just put on didn’t work, how do I go about changing just the set and not the cartridge? Make a video with those sets, can you?
Hello Michelle I have had my pump for a little over a month and I am having problems understanding the sounds and all the carb counting if you have any suggestions please let me know thank you
Yesterday I was watching this video while changing my set and I wondered.. why don't you try using penfill? There's no need to pre-inject air and when you travel you can use them with a non-disposable pen.
@@catatonicbug7522 indeed, penfill are the cartridges for non disposable pens. You can just use them to substitute vials (using the syringe to fill the reservoir) and put them in a pen when needed.
They are usually your target range limits. The top line being what you want to stay under and the bottom line being what you want to stay above. Anything outside of these lines are high blood glucose (above top line) or low blood glucose (under bottom line)
I followed your steps and when I went to evacuate the cartridge I kept getting large bubbles. What it turned out to be was the needle hadn't tightened the needle sufficiently. I don't know how you could add that tip but I think it's an important one. Maybe you could just add some text.
Hi it looked like you drew the air out of the cartridge and then let it back in - did I see that correctly? I draw the air out of the new t-slim cartridge and then withdraw the needle and let the air out off the syringe into the air.
We additionally fill Animas and Medtronic syringe-based reservoirs as you can see inside and remove the bubbles manually (two children on pumps), but I will never fill this type of the reservoir since you cannot see what happens inside. What you can do to save insulin is to change only the infusion set, and fill the cartridge later when needed. Tubes and cannula are two independent components.
Hi Michelle, thank you for this video. I do have a concern on how you prime your set. When you prime the tubing you have already filled the cannula because you have drops forming at the end. Then you insert the set and prime the cannula again using the preset fill. In essence you are giving yourself a small dose of insulin because the cannula is already filled. I usually fill the tubing set after I insert the cannula and disconnect the set from the cannula. Then attach the set to the cannula for the final .3 unit fill. Just wanted to flag it to you. Thank you for your videos, you do them well.
C Stibbe with the plastic cannula sets your actually filling the needle when you prime because the plastic cannula is on the outside of the needle therefore there is no insulin in the cannula just air which is why you need the .3-.5u to fill the cannula once inserted but if your using a set like sure-t/tru steel your filling the needle when priming but because the needle is also the cannula there is no need for cannula fill like mio/autosoft 90
I'm worried about the same thing. I use Mastisol to prep my CGM sites (IV Prep isn't sticky enough), but I seem to sweat them off in the summer. On the 670G now, looking to switch to the TSlim in a month or less, so these things are very concerning to me.
I was just diagnosed a year ago as T1 and the diabetic education where I live is so limited and God-awful. I was supposed to go through training after getting my pump but when I called in to let them know I was ready to schedule it, they had no idea what I was talking about! So glad you have these videos out. Thank you so much.
So my diabetic educator trained me on my tslim 3 days ago. Today was my first solo site change and all that I learned 3 days ago during training was forgotten. It was like a million steps! Thanks for making this video. I used it to help me put my site on just now. I had some small difficulties but it was just due to the awkwardness and newness of it all. But I successfully did it! Thanks a million. Now to wait and see if I really did it right. I’m sure my dexcom will start yelling at me if I didn’t. 😂
ditto!
Yes. Lots of steps. Thanks for the help
Me too! Wasted one tubing set because tubing was taped under insertion site. Don’t ask.
Dear Michelle, I have had T1DM since age 11, now 51. Just changed from Medtronic to Tandem. Was just thinking how brilliant it would have been to have had someone like you ( young, fit and positive) doing these sorts of videos when I was a teenager....
Hi Michelle! Just wanted to thank you for this video. I've been a diabetic for over 20 years, however I've only been on the t:slim X2 for two weeks. I follow this guide each time I change the pump. It is really well done!! You have made a confusing process for a beginner simple, and clear. I can't thank you enough! I hope you guys are safe and healthy. Enjoy the rest of your summer!
Thank you for the tip about how to separate the used needles from all the plastic junk, so you can safely recycle the plastic. So simple & I never thought of it.
As a type 1 diabetic this is a whole new way to take insulin and I was scared to start the pump but I absolutely love it!
Thank you from the bottom of my heart Michelle! What an amazing video showing so much detail! I Love it so much! You make it so easy and your step-by-step instructions showing us as you go are amazing!!! I am so grateful for your video and the gift you give us by posting it! This is my first change and I had forgotten lots :). You reminded me everything my Diabetes Educator shared and made it super easy and fast!
I was briefly trained by tandem dealer, than spent 5 minutes with my doctor who just gave me my settings and that was it - after 5 years on MDI, I was sent home to figure out the switch to the pump on my own. So obviously, I did my first ever site insertion watching your video, one step after the other, THANK YOU!
Hi Michelle…I just started using the TandemTslim 2 weeks ago. I had my 3 hr training but was still very stressed when it came time to do my first change. I watched your video and now each time I change I watch it. It is very helpful to me. Step by step instructions is exactly what I needed. Had a few difficulties but am getting the hang of it. There’s so many steps but I’m learning. I otherwise love the tandem pump. Thank you for your help.
I’ve only been using the t:slim X2 for a few weeks with the same tubing you demonstrated. From the beginning I’ve had trouble cocking the spring for the insertion. I stumbled on giving the mechanism a slight twist as I pull it up and that has seemed to alleviate the difficulty I was having. Nice presentation.
That's a good tip about slightly twisting when setting up the spring. Thanks for sharing :)
WOW I've seen a few of your videos and you are extremely helpful. I'm just now getting approved for a pump. The T:Slim was recommended as well as the Omnipod but I'm not sure my MEDicare Part D will be the best option since Pods are part D not Part B. Love your videos. I was running 600 as a Type 2 for a year and my pancreas had stopped several years ago. I had allergic reactions to long acting insulin but can tolerate Lispro very well. My prognosis was not very good as they told me I wouldn't be here much longer w/o insulin multiple times this year. I've gone from 600 to 91 on 3 injections daily of 10 units but to stay stable I need a pump. I subscribed so I can follow you on your journey and your journey is so helpful for me as someone just starting into this .. Thank you so much Michelle for your detailed videos and sharing of your life with diabetes.
Thank you for this! I'm a 10yr T2 diabetic. Dr has tried to get me into insulin for a few years, but I heavily resisted due to extreme needle phobia and other concerns. It took a lot of work to achieve an a1c of 7.4-8.6. Now I had a heart attack and needed bypass and hospital and surgeon have me no option but insulin. Now in the last 45 days in seeing a GMI of 6.3 with only slightly increasing exercise. I had a life event now that made me come to the realization that I'm done playing and willing to do insulin, but I want /need a pump for even better control and less needless than MDI!
Finished my first cartridge on my new Tslim! Woke up for work at 430am and watched your video to help me load up cartridge #2!!! Thank you so much. LOVE your videos!!!
Changed this morning for first time. Just started 3 days ago. Thanks for being here to help.
Exactly what I needed, thank you so much! Comprehensive and easy to follow along! I've got this!!
I'm a brand new user of this excellent pump system. Today is my first time changing my site and filling the cartridge. Your clear instructions will help me enormously. Thank you :o)
Just switched to the x2. Doing my first site change tomorrow. Thank you for the refresher.
Something I've noticed helps is to leave the old site on until you are sure the new one is working properly, or using the alcohol swab to sanitize the old site if you do remove it immediately
Dr. Michelle - Thanks so much for your videos. I just switched two months ago from 12 years on Medtronic Revel to the T-Slim 2 so your videos have been a big help. I have a Dexcom G6 CGM, so I agree with you that compatibility is a huge plus of the T-Slim. What really rattles my cage is the fact that Tandem has invested so much in their technology for this $5,000 pump but they forgot about the basics of customer service by providing a thoroughly useless (and dangerous) 50-cent clip on the case. You noted in your video that it's popped off your bra a few times. It's popped off my construction belt several times and yanked the set right out of me. Very dangerous. It's impossible to fasten to pajamas at night so I end up sleeping on it rather than the other way around. Somebody at Tandem's product design dept. needs a serious wake-up call. Anyway, you are the bomb! Keep those video tips coming. So grateful....David near SF.
Agree with you fully
I just started a pump, and by extension the Tandem, and I already agree lol. I've only had it for one night technically, and sleeping with it is going to take some getting used to. However, my sugars have already improved, I haven't risen passed 190 all day 😭 Right now I'm feeling low (I'm 94, but it went up from 80), so idk if anything I type makes sense, but I agree with you!
Thank you for this video and all of them. Today was my 11yr old son's 1st site change and we walked through it with you.
Thank u for your visual explanation, reading the instructions over and over, but thank god for TH-cam university, found your site as well as a few others, who provide personable information on the TX2, and site preparation... with your video assistance, I set up my TX2 and applied it before my training.. I was in the Omnipod system (great wireless system) but due to insurance changes, needed to switch to a wired system, so I chose the Tandem over the Metronix....new device means apprehensions of installation, until I’m used to the systematic and daily changes, thanks Michelle, u made it easy...
My boy will be getting that pump very soon. Thank you for a very informative and simple video.
🙂Michelle your video is excellent! I was really nervous to do this for the first time, but thanks to you being such a demonstrator I was able to do it so easily. Thank-you and Thank-you!
Watching this on the eve of my training Michelle. Thanks so much for doing videos like this!
Oh how exciting!! Best of luck with the pump start! I hope it is going smoothly for you!
Indescribably helpful. Critical DURING my 1st site change today. Thank you so very much.
Just moved to the Tslim and I've already used this vid so many times. Thank you!
Thank you so much for this video. I have been struggling with this part of my pump training so I needed this extra instruction.
I have never used a pump before always had the flex pens ( Diabetic since 2016) but I finally took the leap and switched this was my first time ever attempting to put on my tandem pump and it was a success! Thank you so much this video really helped me 😊
So I just started the Tandem t:slimX2 pump after using the medtronic paradigm for years. I went through the instructions with a live coach to get me started, but in a few days it was time for me to change my set-ALL BY MYSELF!! I began to get very nervous and anxious. Since I TH-cam for answers to many other things, I thought why not try to see if there was a tutorial I could follow. Michelle's was the best! She went through the change step by step and made it very easy for me to follow. I was a success and began feeling more confident about changing my site with my new pump.
this is so helpful cause I forget everytime this is what I follow literally every time I change mine Thank you so much you are the best 🙂
Just want to say thank you it was the first time that I had to do it by myself and I was a little nervous but you made it smooth and easy thanks again xoxo
The beautiful moment when you take your pump off and you spend like 2 minutes scratching the area where the needle was on... 🤣
This is soooo me 😂💕
omlll frrrr!!!
Me to! In my opinion it makes it hurt less or it’s just irritated
So incredible true
I AGREEE SOOOOO MUCH
Aa this happens with my Dexcom
Thanks so much, it was my first time home alone. great video!
Great tutorial I've been on the tslim about 4 years so I'm very familiar the process it was definitely nice watching someone other than myself doing it ,,,,so the reason for my comment is because your comment about being a diabetic accumulating piles of trash when changing out your infusion site so I figured id share what I do to help with the trash clean up ,,so what I've done when I was first put on the pump and recieved a 6 month supply of cartridges and infusion sets and what I do is get a box of sandwich bags and put one of each piece into a bag so it kinda makes it a little portable site change tool bag so inside the bag is the cartridge infusion set syringe and needle and once your done changing out your site everything can go into the sandwich bag and tossed out hopefully that makes sense to someone thanks for listening
Thank you so much all the other videos from Tandem are way to hard to follow. Definitely dropping a like!
Thanks, Michelle. I am a former Animas -> Medtronic -> now t-slimmer. Cutting over from the Gurardian G3 to Dexcom G6 CGM. You are a wonderful inspiration and easy to follow fellow T1D. Love your vids. New subscriber!!
Thanks for sharing. Seems so much more complicated than a Medtronic change, but I’m sure, like anything, you get used to it.
Katie Petersen I agree. I use a Medtronic pump.
I just got my t-slim today! I was hoping to learn everything on TH-cam and just do it myself without the diabetes educator, but now I’m a little overwhelmed and worried. I think I have everything all set up. I may try tomorrow
Sue Christou it's not hard! Din't let fear get in your way. It seems like a lot but once you do it it becomes routine. And realize a youtube video narration of the steps is longer than it actually takes! Promise you will love it!
I have to say that I've been on medtronic ronic pumps for a long time and I switched to tslim so I could use the Dexcom G6 and because I felt like the scream was more user-friendly for me. I will say though in all honesty that I cannot stand all of the parts that need to be used to change an infusion set and the time is 10 to 15 minutes as opposed to less than 2 for me with my Medtronic pumps. I also feel like I have such weird changes with doing the same thing that I wonder if the mechanism is actually turning accurately, or there is something that happens with where you put the needle in to fill it on the Tx2. Sometimes I go to put the insulin in and my friends will not go down and I have to move it two or three times before it will take the insulin and there are times when I hear an audible like crackling noise that sounds like the peace inside is expanding because it's being filled that hole little mechanism to seems very arcade to me I wish they would do it the way Medtronic does. I want the Medtronic pump with the T slim screen and the Dexcom G6 compatibility
thank youuuu. my mom is out of town for a few days and she usually helps me and my dad couldn’t figure out why the site was peeling off when you remove the applicator. turns out all we needed was to hold it differently and press on the sides. tysm 💓💓💓💓💓
I got training in using mine on Dec. 7th (2021) and have found that I feel a lot better with how it controls my blood sugar. The Tslim is a great little machine.
Just started using the Tslim and received my 1st prescription of insulin in the vials... 3 vials cost me $985 US Dollars.... I live in Tennessee... Pay it or die...ridiculous! Thanks for the informative video, helped a bunch!
@Cerus98 The cost for 3 vials at Walmart was $985.... Doesn't matter if I paid, if insurance paid or if a stranger paid the bill, insulin is too expensive and people are dying because they can't afford it and many ration their insulin. Just because insurance pays a portion doesn't mean 3 vials didn't cost $985...
@Cerus98 you must not be a type 1 diabetic or you would know that's exactly what 3 vials of insulin cost. I get the exact same prescription filled every 30 days at Walmart in Tennessee, and $985 is the cost.
@Cerus98 I'm guessing your somehow associated and benefiting from profits made from the sale of insulin or insulin related supplies? Yes I have insurance, and no I am not pro-socialized medicine. But, due to the greed of pharmacuetical companies, people who require life saving drugs are dying because they cannot afford these drugs. Even with health insurance, I'm spending roughly 25 percent of my income on health insurance/medical supplies. Insurance, drugs and healthcare is no longer affordable for a large percentage of Americans, and the affordable Care act is partly to blame.
@Cerus98 you make some good points. I don't want to turn this into something political, but our medical system is also being overburdened with illegals that overwhelm our emergency rooms and never pay for the services and medicine. Those losses have to be paid by someone, and the cost is passed on to those that pay. So much fraud and abuse that it's overwhelming. The healthcare situation in this country is in a mess, and it's above my educational level to even begin to give advice for solutions. Appreciate the conversation, it's good to hear different points of view.
I just started my tandem control IQ 3 days ago.This was a good video! Summarized everything in one! The curve ball is knowing when the pump isn’t going to dose you on the third day
@TheSte4991 Can you explain that "curve ball"? Does the pump just stop delivering after a certain time, or does it keep going until it runs out of insulin? Been on Medtronic pumps for 30+ years, and thinking about the TSlim. I realize the recommended time for a site change is 2-3 days, but I have NEVER done that, and just filled the pump with 300 units and kept it on until the pump warns me that the reservoir is low (usually 6 days or so). I'd hate to have the pump just "time-out" on me, and waste a reservoir full of insulin.
@@catatonicbug7522 so i have learned that at 3 days my skin gets irritated and that my sugar doesn't manage after that
@@TheSte4991 interesting. Never had that problem myself. Just wondering if the pump shuts off after 3 days by itself though.
@@catatonicbug7522 no. No worries in that regard it just fussed at you once the battery gets below 20%
I am new on insulin pump after being type 1 over 18 years. And I just started using Omnipod and I am very very happy with that especially I don’t have tubes all around my body and it’s way easy then others I guess
Wow! That's definitely a process for a site change. I'm sure it gets easier the longer you have to do it. My Omnipod takes less than 5 minutes (may have to time it to be sure). But hey, it's a great pump from what I hear so I guess it's worth it.
Yes it's definitely a longer site change! It's faster than the length of this video, since I took more time to describe the process, but it's not faster than 5 min. The Omnipod looks super easy to change :)
@@MichelleLord HI Michelle, I am an active adult and my Endo doctor advised using the Omnipod system, I have been on it for 3 years. I just do not comprehend being active and having an IV tube to watch out for. Omnipod everything is in the pump itself. Thanks for the video and very well done
Thanks for the video!! This pump looks a lot slimmer than the medtronic pumps!! I'm on the Medtronic pump now but I am frustrated with it. At first I was excited because the because the auto mode but medtronic's CGM system stinks! The first couple days were great but the transmitter started having trouble sending data to the pump so in the first 2 weeks I had to get 2 new transmitters from medtronic. Every night my wife and I were woke up from alarms going off on the pump about the sensors/transmitter losing connection so about 2 months of this I finally gave up on their CGM. Now I just have to wait 3 years for my warrantee to expire before my insurance company will cover a new pump. Can't wait to make the move to the tslim and the dexcom CGM.
Great video! I loved your advice for getting rid of the air bubbles.
Thank you! I'm so glad you found it helpful :)
Thank you for this video. I recently divorced Medtronic after the miserable 670G. Been on a TSlim for 6 days now. There are a lot more steps in changing infusion sites! I need to watch these videos during a few more site changes to get the steps down. T1 since 1985, using pumps for about 20-yrs.
Thank you sooo much. You got me through my first site change!
Great content, thanks for creating. I watched your Dexcom G6 10day video as well since i just started using mine. Living in Southeast US provides plenty of adhesion challenges during the summer. Note if you ever need extra help keeping your insulin pump sites adhered you can also use the same IV prep wipe you used for your Dexcom G6. I do not worry about wiping in a circle/donut since the insulin site canulas are more robust than the sensor filaments. I'll be switching to the t-slim from 670G in OCT!
After 25+ years on a Medtronic pump, I started using a t:slim x2 a week ago… best decision ever! I have to say, though, I prefer Medtronic’s Quickset infusion sets and reservoirs; they’re much easier to load and insert. Since set/site change is every three days, I can deal with the Autosoft 90 versus Medtronic’s pump!😊
I take the air out of the cartridge before drawing any insulin into the syringe
Your supposed to
Great video! I switched from the Animas Vibe to the t:slim X2 2 days ago. The Tandem rep at Northwestern Memorial Hospital had a 2-hour class where she helped me and 3 other newbies program the pump, fill cartridges and insert infusion sets. Tomorrow will be my first solo site change.
My T1D diagnosis was in 1963, and over the years I have worn 3 Medtronic, 1 Asante SNAP and 1 Animas Vibe pump. So far, I am impressed with the t:slim's user friendliness and Dexcom G6 integration. Your videos are informative and fun to watch. Congratulations on completing your PhD!
I just got put on this exact type of pump! My first site change is tomorrow, and I was admittedly worried about how to rip the site out lmao. I also got switched from Libre to Dexcom, so I've ripped needles out of my skin before, I don't know why I was nervous lmaoo. This video helped me, thank you! I wish there was a way to reduce the amount of plastic used, but I also understand the purpose of each part. I'm sure in the future the waste used will me reduced, but It still feels weird seeing just how much plastic is involved.
Thank you for this video! My kiddo wants to try new infusion sets for her tslim(we have been truesteel). Needed to just see how the 90 worked but found more info and some refreshers!!
I'm definitely gunna try a few new things I saw here. I like these videos because my kiddo can also watch them and know she's not alone and start to learn!! ❤
I got a Tslim a few weeks ago and every time I have I sit chnage I come back to this video to make sure I’m doing it right!
I am always blown away by the amount of waste in the packaging of pump and CGM associated items.
I no longer use Libre sensors but I commend Abbott for actively pursuing and paying for their products to be returned to them for reuse/recycle.
Hopefully more manufacturers follow that mindset.
It is shocking. Metal and plastic mixed together. Paperwork. Cardboard. It is the metal spring that cannot be taken out which is so hard to believe that they don’t have a way to reclaim and recycle.
I want to say that I’m not a diabetic but I really enjoy these educational videos and it’s nice to learn something new
Very detailed. Doing my courses for tslim or ypso pump. Been on insulin pens for 10 years now so the thought of change is a little scary 😅
Thank you for this! very helpful- this will be my second time changing my site with the t;slim x2 so happy with is so far! tomorrow the Control Iq gets activated.
I'm so happy to know that I'm not the only one bothered by the amount of waste that is involved. Hopefully, that can be improved in the near future.
your a blessing, your so good at explaining things! thank you !!!!
Hi Michelle
Thank you for the tutorial. I have to go to T-slim training next week. I have been using the insulin pens for a couple of years. Did you have trouble regulating your blood sugar before the pump? I have that trouble now and I hope with the pump and the Dexcom sensor it will maintain my glucose level somewhere close to normal. It looks like this video is at least a year old, have you had any problems since you started using the t-slim? Thanks again.
This video was super helpful as I will be doing my first site change without my educator tomorrow! Thank you for posting this!!
I just got my tandem mobi insulin pump two weeks ago and have my training on Wednesday
Thanks Michelle. This video is a lifesaver ❤
18 years on MDI, I'm a week and a bit away from an appointment to look at pump options etc. Can't focus on anything else right now. I think I want the Dana RS as I can use AndroidAPS with it. No more worrying about dead-in-bed syndrome from split lantus injections
Thank you so much for your video, it really helped me change and add insulin my tslim 2 pump.
I get frustrated with all teh packaging from the dexcom sensor, the pump supplies don't offend me as much-there just less plastic I guess. That precious insulin comment made me smile, I feel the same way, when I purge the bubbles from the syringe, I do so back into the vial of insulin---and then I don't get that smell of insulin either. saves every drop!
Yes, The TSlim X2 Refill is one of the biggest annoyances of this pump. It is complicated and tedious.The TSlim insulin management with the Dexcom is still the best though.
Thank you so much! My first site change and I couldn’t remember
Can you do a video showing where you can apply it to multiple sites please? Like thigh, back, hip? I’m not very comfortable with these areas and need to give my abdomen a rest because of scar tissue. Any advice would help or illustration.
Hi Michelle, I'm glad to see these videos, I'm going to make the change from a Minimed 460 G with sensor soon to a tandem Tslim as well. Do you have any videos discussing perhaps the difference, what it's like to sleep with the Tslim as opposed to the Minimed? I'd love to hear if there is a bit more peace from all the sensor alarm events that happen on the Minimed. ;-)
Can you show us how you pull the needle out? With in 2 weeks my sharps container is full of plastic. Also do you pull the needle from the dexcom also?
Great video--thank you for sharing your process!! Much more complex than I thought it would be
Deciding b/t upgrading to Medtronic 770/780G, or switching to T:Slim/Dexcom. Thankful for your insights. Wondering if you’ve reviewed the info on the 770/780G coming out.
Thank you
I have been diabetic for 16 years . I also have the DexcomG6,Is it true that when u installed your pump it needs to be 3 inches from DexcomG6. I’m really tired of being all mark in my belly
Hello! Megan recommend I reach out to you when I ask her about high sugars after new site. I watched a few videos but couldn’t find it. Please share!
Thank you so much this was so helpful! ^^
I am a bit different. When filling the tube when the insulin hits th tube I flick away. Get air out. And it takes about 13.5 units. And no air. I flick too much
I like how she wishes that these thinks came is something eco friendly!
It's so doable yet they don't 😕. I'm on the libre 2 and every applicator I throw out is just heartbreaking. They could make it out of PLA (polylactic acid - bio plastic) and it would disappear forever in landfill. But they don't. Mental
Thanks for the video! I will be starting t:slim X2 in 2 weeks, I just got approved (it's a little longer process in the USA). I'm on insulin injections right now. From what my endocronologist has said to me, it sounds like the pump will make it easier to manage my blood sugar level. I do my best to try to stay on a schedule to have meals and snacks at the same time to try to manage my blood sugar levels but it's hard, the pump sounds like it will make my life easier! It's going to be a lot to get used to, looks like changing the cartridges seems tricky. Sounds like picking the spot for the site can be tedious knowing that you have to do it every 3 days, it's kind of the same with injections trying to pick a spot, I bruise really easily
Brian, I hope you've found you love being on a pump and like everything there are drawbacks, but the convenience and better control far outweigh those. As far as insulin pump sites, abdomen, side/back and hip...anywhere there's a little extra skin should work. If you haven't already, i suggest creating small backup pump site change kits with prep wipes and sites inside a ziplock bag...for the car, backpack, office as it never fails you'll need to change or accidentally rip one off at an inopportune time. Best of luck!
What if the infusion set I just put on didn’t work, how do I go about changing just the set and not the cartridge? Make a video with those sets, can you?
Hello Michelle I have had my pump for a little over a month and I am having problems understanding the sounds and all the carb counting if you have any suggestions please let me know thank you
Yesterday I was watching this video while changing my set and I wondered.. why don't you try using penfill? There's no need to pre-inject air and when you travel you can use them with a non-disposable pen.
good suggestion. i have insulin pens as backups to my pump and using them this way would be good vs. letting them expire.
The need to use the syringe to suck out the air in the cartridge before adding insulin removes the option to use a pen.
@@catatonicbug7522 indeed, penfill are the cartridges for non disposable pens. You can just use them to substitute vials (using the syringe to fill the reservoir) and put them in a pen when needed.
yay!! I’m not the only one who uses the t slim
Question: Wife wants to know what does the 2 red lines going horizontally mean on pump?
They are usually your target range limits. The top line being what you want to stay under and the bottom line being what you want to stay above. Anything outside of these lines are high blood glucose (above top line) or low blood glucose (under bottom line)
hi thank you for this video- i’m learning bc i now care for my 7 yr old grandson who is T1D - in soo nervous doing this 🤦🏼♀️
Commentary on the weird smell of insulin is hilarious!! I think that EVERY time!
My cats come running from across the room! Haha. They love the way it smells for some reason.
Smells like Band Aids to me
I followed your steps and when I went to evacuate the cartridge I kept getting large bubbles. What it turned out to be was the needle hadn't tightened the needle sufficiently. I don't know how you could add that tip but I think it's an important one. Maybe you could just add some text.
Happy Christmas and happy New year
I am on the acue check pump with the Libra arm scanner
How do you anchor the tubing? My 11 year old just started on a pump and this is an issue for him.
Wait, you have your sensor on the inside of your arm. I didn’t realize the fat there is safe to use. Is it?
Hi it looked like you drew the air out of the cartridge and then let it back in - did I see that correctly? I draw the air out of the new t-slim cartridge and then withdraw the needle and let the air out off the syringe into the air.
im starting my training today!!
Good luck! These refresher vids are really helpful, so bookmark it.
Help, help, help! How do you get the cartidge OUT of the pump to change it? THis is my first time and it's not working at all!!! :(
I was on the T- slim and it was good at first but it got hard... I have the omnipod know and it gets hard but it is better for me.. 😊
I'm glad the omnipod is working well for you :D !
This is my first site change. What if you still have like 50 units in the cartridge? Do you pull that out first before discarding the cartridge?
Yes, I've started doing that. It's definitely not recommended, but I cannot stand to waste insulin!
We additionally fill Animas and Medtronic syringe-based reservoirs as you can see inside and remove the bubbles manually (two children on pumps), but I will never fill this type of the reservoir since you cannot see what happens inside. What you can do to save insulin is to change only the infusion set, and fill the cartridge later when needed. Tubes and cannula are two independent components.
Hi Michelle, thank you for this video.
I do have a concern on how you prime your set. When you prime the tubing you have already filled the cannula because you have drops forming at the end. Then you insert the set and prime the cannula again using the preset fill. In essence you are giving yourself a small dose of insulin because the cannula is already filled.
I usually fill the tubing set after I insert the cannula and disconnect the set from the cannula. Then attach the set to the cannula for the final .3 unit fill. Just wanted to flag it to you.
Thank you for your videos, you do them well.
C Stibbe with the plastic cannula sets your actually filling the needle when you prime because the plastic cannula is on the outside of the needle therefore there is no insulin in the cannula just air which is why you need the .3-.5u to fill the cannula once inserted but if your using a set like sure-t/tru steel your filling the needle when priming but because the needle is also the cannula there is no need for cannula fill like mio/autosoft 90
Thanks for sharing. Does the site always stay attached between changes? We use IV prep to give it a bit more adhesion (670G).
I'm worried about the same thing. I use Mastisol to prep my CGM sites (IV Prep isn't sticky enough), but I seem to sweat them off in the summer. On the 670G now, looking to switch to the TSlim in a month or less, so these things are very concerning to me.
How do you find putting your Dexcom on the inside of your arm? I havent tried that site before