I just started pumping and am excited to start using combo boluses. I understand that the Ping is a bit different than what I read in Pumping Insulin. I hear people on TuD talking about Square Wave and Dual Wave Boluses and understand that is A bolus over an extended period of time and a bolus that is part now and part over a period of time. But since the Ping just has “combo boluses” I am having trouble translating. I know how to do the Dual wave by setting a percentage now, a percentage later and a duration. But what if I want to do a square wave and divide it evenly over a length of time? I’m having trouble thinking that through. Is it based on duration of action? Like my duration of action is set at 3 hours. So if I wanted to spread let’s say 6 units out evenly, would I say 33% now and 66% later over a three hour period? I know I sound confused but hopefully the question is clear!
If your duration is 3 hours, then it will give you the remainder percentage over 3 hours …equally. Every few minutes (or however long the interval is spaced out) you can actually hear your ping make a bit of a buzzing sound as it gives you insulin over that time. So if you set your duration for 3 hours and were giving yourself 9 units, if you gave yourself 33% (3 units) now, you would get 6 units over the 3 hour period.
Little did I know that when I was DX I’d have to become a math major (which I’m so not one) along with the loss of spontaneity (which I really miss) with all that said, I’ve learned alot by reading all of these great threads about the dual and wave boluses.
It has really helped me get my numbers looking better.
Zoe, if you want the full 6 units spread out evenly over 3 hours, then you would put 0% upfront. If you take 33% upfront, then you have 66% being spread over 3 hours.
When I am doing TAG, I take the bolus for my carbs upfront. Then I do a 2nd bolus using the combo bolus for the TAG. I put 0% upfront and then extend it over the period of time I want (I use 2 different timeframes depending on the meal).
Ah, I knew I wasn’t thinking about it right. 0% now and 100% over three hours (or whatever time I want). Makes sense! I’m actually pretty good with math but sometimes the concept just isn’t clear to me. Thanks!
Duh - I never thought of doing 0% and spreading the whole thing out. Thanks!
I am sure I read that somewhere!