What is Needed to Start
Pump
Touch screen pump connects tubing to a small patch called an infusion set that attaches to the body.
Cartridge
Tubed insulin pumps contain a plastic reservoir that is manually filled with insulin and locked into the pump.
Infusion Set
An infusion set contains the thin plastic tubing that delivers insulin from the pump to the body.
Controller
Compatible smartphone can be used to view and control insulin delivery using the t:connect app.
Watch and Learn
Intro to Tandem t:slim X2
How to Fill a Cartridge on the Tandem t:slim X2
Using the Tandem t:slim X2
Device Details
Affordability and Access
$$$$
Widely covered for insulin-dependent type 1 and 2. Supplies and pump provided by DME. Price range; $0-$4000 to start and $0-$300/Month.
Data Monitoring Options
Yes
t:connect mobile app wirelessly uploads cloud-based t:connect web application delivering access to recent patient data.
Data View Options
Yes
Data is viewed on the pump's main screen and/or on a smartphone with the t:connect mobile app (available for both iOS and Android devices).
Duration and Storage
3 Days
Pump can be worn for up to 72 hours and works between 40°F - 99°F
Vision / Auditory / Dexterity
NO text to speech
YES vibration alerts
A LOT of dexterity needed
Patient Considerations
Comfort
Smallest tubed pump. Small patch called an infusion set consists of a complete tubing system that attaches to the body. Tubed pumps have the most infusion sets to pick from.
Active Lifestyle
Exercise mode. Optional settings for exercise to adjust treatment ranges for activity with the press of a button. Pump is not waterproof.
Avoiding Highs and Lows
Precise dosing. Pumps allow different amounts of basal insulin at different times of day and very precise dosing.
Easy to Use
Rechargeable. Pump has a touch screen display and rechargeable battery.
Easy Insulin Dosing
Customizable dosing. Bolus calculator available to help figure out doses. Offers smallest increments of basal insulin delivery. Basal in 0.001 increments, bolus in 0.01 increments.
Fewer Fingersticks
Frequent finger-sticks are required.
Privacy
Discreet. Smallest tubed pump with visible tubing. Ability to bolus directly on a compatible smartphone. Can be clipped to clothing or placed in a pocket to be discreet when needed. Touchscreen of pump looks like normal tech device.
Related Device Combos
Meter & Pump
Meter & Tandem
The Tandem pump allows you to bolus directly from a compatible iOS or Android smartphone, is rechargeable, has a touch screen, and can be updated on your home computer.
Sensor & Pump
Freestyle Libre 2 & Tandem
These devices do not connect but they each have their merits. The Freestyle Libre is small and the Tandem is modern with the ability to bolus directly on a compatible smartphone.
Sensor & Pump
Dexcom G6 & Tandem
The Tandem and Dexcom G6 can be connected, so you have one less thing to carry. Also, Tandem has a program called Control IQ that works with the Dexcom G6 to reduce your basal when it expects a low or increase your basal when it expects a high blood sugar. Control IQ also gives automatic correction doses when needed.