Supplies for maintenance of insulin infusion catheter, per week
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure
- Common Name: Insulin Infusion Catheter Maintenance
- Medical Term: Supplies for Maintenance of Insulin Infusion Catheter, Per Week (HCPCS Code: A4224)
Summary
This procedure involves the weekly maintenance of an insulin infusion catheter used in the continuous administration of insulin to manage diabetes.
Purpose
- Medical Conditions Addressed: Diabetes Mellitus
- Goals: Ensure the catheter remains functional and free of blockages or infections, enabling effective and uninterrupted insulin delivery.
Indications
- Symptoms: Unstable blood sugar levels requiring continuous insulin infusion.
- Conditions: Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients who use an insulin pump.
- Patient Criteria: Patients already using an insulin pump system.
Preparation
- Pre-procedure Instructions: None specific for the patient, as it is typically performed by healthcare professionals.
- Diagnostic Tests: Regular blood glucose monitoring.
Procedure Description
- Step-by-Step:
- Inspect the catheter site for signs of infection or irritation.
- Clean the area around the catheter with antiseptic wipes.
- Check the catheter tubing for blockages or signs of wear.
- Replace any worn or damaged parts of the infusion set.
- Tools and Equipment: Antiseptic wipes, new catheter parts, and tubing suitable for the insulin pump system.
- Anesthesia or Sedation: Not applicable, as it is a maintenance procedure.
Duration
The procedure typically takes about 10 to 20 minutes.
Setting
Performed in a clinical setting such as a hospital outpatient clinic or doctor's office.
Personnel
- Primary healthcare provider: Often conducted by a trained nurse or endocrinologist.
- Secondary personnel: Diabetes educator or medical assistant.
Risks and Complications
- Common Risks: Minor skin irritation at the catheter site.
- Rare Risks: Infection, catheter dislodgment, or catheter occlusion.
- Management: Immediate treatment of infections with antibiotics, replacing the catheter if dislodged or occluded.
Benefits
- Expected Benefits: Maintains the effectiveness of the insulin pump system, ensuring consistent and appropriate insulin delivery.
- Realization Time: Immediate upon proper maintenance.
Recovery
- Post-Procedure Care: Continue monitoring blood glucose levels.
- Expected Recovery Time: No recovery time needed; daily activities can be resumed immediately.
- Restrictions and Follow-Up: Routine follow-up appointments as scheduled with an endocrinologist.
Alternatives
- Other Treatment Options:
- Multiple daily insulin injections
- Use of different insulin delivery devices (e.g., insulin pens)
- Pros and Cons:
- Insulin Pump: Provides more precise control of blood glucose but requires diligent maintenance.
- Injections: Less equipment maintenance but can be less effective in finely tuning blood sugar levels.
Patient Experience
- During the Procedure: Minimal discomfort; mostly involves inspection and cleaning.
- After the Procedure: Little to no pain; should feel secure knowing the catheter is functioning properly.
- Pain Management: Not typically required due to the non-invasive nature of the procedure. Comfort measures include ensuring clean hands and a sterile environment to minimize irritation.
This maintenance is crucial for achieving optimal diabetes management through continuous insulin infusion.