The Effects of Continuous Insulin Pump Therapy on Glycemic Control in Pregnant Type 1 Diabetics

Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus accounts for approximately 5% of the diabetic population (CDC, 2015). Numerous complications must be avoided when a diabetic is insulin dependent. Women who are diabetic who are planning to conceive a family have special considerations. Little research has been focused into how to best manage Type 1 diabetics during pregnancy. Since Type 1 diabetes is predominantly diagnosed between birth and 30 years of age, many Type 1 diabetics have potential to become pregnant without knowing how to best manage their diabetes. Poor glycemic control in diabetics has been related to miscarriages, stillbirths, malformations, and macrosomia (Lapolla, 2003). This thesis will focus on which type of insulin therapy and form of administration will best aid the Type 1 diabetic to maintain tight control of their blood glucose levels to provide safety for the mother and infant, and best protocols for nursing care practice for this population. The purpose of this senior thesis project is to provide information and guidance for nurses who care for pregnancy Type 1 diabetics. 2014 National Diabetes Statistics Report. (2015, May 15). Retrieved January 28, 2017, from https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/data/statistics/2014statisticsreport.html Lapolla, A., Dalfr�, M. G., Masin, M., Bruttomesso, D., Piva, I., Crepaldi, C., . . . Fedele, D. (2003). Analysis of outcome of pregnancy in type 1 diabetics treated with insulin pump or conventional insulin therapy.Acta Diabetologica, 40(3), 143-149. doi:10.1007/s00592-003-0103-