CGM sensor placement and its effects

Please note that some tips may be based solely on users’ experiences and suggestions.

We all probably know about CGM devices. A CGM stands for continuous glucose monitoring and the logic behind this innovation was to lower finger pricks and increase monitoring.

How do CGM devices work?

Usually, if you buy a starter kit of any CGM, it will come with a sensor, an applicator, and a monitor or receiver. Once the sensor is inserted under the skin, it starts transmitting your sugar number to the receiver, this receiver is either your phone or a monitor.

Since Dexcom and Libre by Abbott are the most famous CGM devices at the moment. We will discuss what is suggested by the companies on the application of this sensor and the experiences of CGM users, such as what is the best place to apply a CGM sensor and why.

CGM sensor placement:

It’s important to take the sensor placement seriously, as this is something that leads to further issues. You need to first go through the steps provided to you in the user guide and follow them properly.

Few tips on applying CGM sensors:

• Do not take a bath just before applying the sensor. You may find it useful not to take a bath a few hours before or after applying the sensor.
• Make sure to use alcohol swaps at the place where you plan to apply the sensor.
• The place where you are applying the sensor should be fully dried at the time of application of the sensor.
• Choose the place for applying the sensor wisely.
• In case bleeding starts and does not stop, then please pull out the sensor and apply it at a different place.

Does your Sensor fall off early?

Apart from using CGM patches, you may avoid such issues by following the correct CGM sensor placement techniques. Here we have compiled some for you;

• Make sure the place you are going to apply the sensor is highly clean. Use alcohol swaps to clean.
• Insert the sensor only when the skin is fully dried.
• Wisely choose the place to apply the sensor. If you are a side sleeper and you apply the sensor on the same arm, pressure applied on the sensor in this case can not only cause it to fall, but you may also get some extreme lows due to the compression.

We get to know the issues where people complain that their Dexcom sensor fell off early or Freestyle Libre sensor fell off early. Upon experiencing users have reported finding the belly, and thigh as useful places. If applying on the belly, please make sure you leave a 3-inch gap from the belly button.

If your waistband is causing trouble, you can apply it a bit above. Some users have reported applying it above the waistband and below the bra. And this is working fine for them.

Just in case you are looking to change or upgrade your CGM device, you may find one at CGM Monitors. We offer insurance and card payments both. Plus, your product will be delivered to your door.

Conclusion:

CGM sensor placement is important and you need to apply the sensor in a clean and dry place. Choose the place to insert your sensor wisely. Some people have tried places other than the back of upper arm and they are pretty satisfied.

Keywords: CGM sensor placement, Dexcom sensor fell off early, Freestyle Libre sensor fell off early