Clinical Nurse Leader Practice Exam

What is the most significant benefit of an insulin pump for a patient with Type 1 diabetes?

1. An insulin pump allows you to decrease the number of injections throughout the day

2. An insulin pump will provide intermittent doses of insulin in response to the patient's blood sugar

3. An insulin pump has the capability to read your blood sugars throughout the patient's waking hours

4. An insulin pump provides continuous doses of insulin around the clock as a basal rate that can be adjusted

The correct answer is: An insulin pump provides continuous doses of insulin around the clock as a basal rate that can be adjusted

The most significant benefit of an insulin pump for a patient with Type 1 diabetes is that it provides continuous doses of insulin around the clock as a basal rate that can be adjusted. This feature is crucial for managing blood glucose levels effectively throughout the day and night. Continuous insulin delivery mimics the function of a healthy pancreas, which secretes varying levels of insulin based on the body's needs. With the ability to adjust the basal rate, patients can tailor their insulin delivery to fit their individual metabolic needs, activity levels, and dietary intake. This personalization helps achieve better glycemic control, reduces the risk of hypo- or hyperglycemia, and allows for more flexibility in lifestyle choices, such as meal timing and physical activity. This advantage is particularly significant for those who may have varying insulin requirements throughout the day due to changes in factors like exercise, stress, or food intake. The continuous delivery system allows patients to achieve a more stable blood glucose level, ultimately improving their overall quality of life and reducing the long-term complications associated with diabetes.