Summer Tape Tips


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Tools > Internet Options > Security > Internet > Customer Level > Scripting > Active Scripting > Enable When you're perspiring in the summer heat, or enjoying a swim in the pool, your infusion set tape may not stick well to your skin. Several products are available that may help you secure your site. For example, Medtronic Diabetes carries IV PrepTM, which you can use on your skin as an antiseptic skin preparation; Mastisol adhesive and its remover, Detachol - which many pump wearers choose for keeping infusion set adhesive in place when nothing else works - and IV3000TM tape, which can help secure the infusion set when you sweat or bathe. Here are some tips to keep in mind if you have a difficult time keeping your infusion set in place.

The following tips come courtesy of Medtronic Diabetes pumpers Mathew Whitaker, an IronmanTM triathlete, and Jessica Ching, who rows and runs marathons.

  1. Change the site when you are showering: Before you shower, remove your old infusion set. Clean off all of the old adhesive with an adhesive remover such as Uni-SolveTM or Detachol (for removing Mastisol). In the shower, wash off the solvent with soap.
  2. Let skin dry THOROUGHLY before applying either the infusion set or the adhesive.
  3. Apply IV Prep in a large area around the site and fan it, allowing it to become tacky. (You can also try a stronger adhesive, such as Mastisol. However, be sure to have Detachol solvent available for removal.)
  4. Touch as little of the adhesive as possible on the infusion set so as to avoid getting skin oils on it.
  5. On days you know you will be very active, sweating or swimming, cover the site with a piece of IV3000 tape.
  6. To prepare the IV3000 for the Silhouette® or Quick-set® infusion sets, fold it in half with only a slight crease. Cut out a half-moon that's half the size of the plastic "bump" on the infusion set. When you unfold it, it will be just the right size. If the tape peels off, you can replace it to last until the next site change.
  7. You can try using additional tape on the corners to prevent them from peeling up and lifting the entire infusion site out.

Additional suggestions:

  • Keep the infusion site clean-shaven and try exfoliating (removing dead surface skin cells) with a facial scrub, brush or loofah, followed by an alcohol swab, then soap and water.
  • Stretch skin taut before using bonding agent or tape.
  • Use antiperspirant spray (not stick or roll-on) around the site.
  • After you apply the tape, go back around the edge of the tape with the IV Prep pad to seal the edges to your skin.
  • Try applying an IV3000 patch before inserting the needle, and then apply another over the top.
  • Use medical cloth tape (the really sticky stuff) over the infusion set when you have to be absolutely sure the infusion set doesn't come loose - for instance, when you compete in athletic events.
  • Check regularly to make sure the tubing is not pulling on the site and adding stress on the adhesive.
  • Avoid wearing seams or waistbands over the site because they may rub and loosen the tape.
  • If all else fails, check with your Health Care Provider