What symptom might indicate that a student needs to check their insulin pump?

Increased thirst is a common symptom that can indicate elevated blood sugar levels, which may suggest that insulin delivery is insufficient or that there is a malfunction with the insulin pump. Insulin pumps are designed to provide a continuous supply of insulin, and if they are not functioning properly (due to issues like a blocked cannula, low battery, or an empty insulin reservoir), it can lead to hyperglycemia. When blood glucose levels rise, one of the body’s responses is to trigger increased thirst as a mechanism to prompt fluid intake to help dilute the elevated glucose levels. Therefore, recognizing increased thirst as a potential signal to check the insulin pump is crucial for maintaining optimal blood glucose control and preventing complications.