Effortless Dexcom G6 Sensor Replacement: A Step-by-Step Guide

A Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) is a device invented for fingerprick-free glucose monitoring. These devices typically have a sensor with a microneedle that is considered the least invasive and does not cause bleeding. These CGM sensors come with different features, sizes, life spans, and accuracy. Among all these CGM sensors, Dexcom and Abbott are considered to be the top players.

According to PubMed, “CGMS uses a 1 mm length needle in a 3 mm × 3 mm microneedle array for percutaneous minimally invasive blood glucose measurement. This size of microneedle does not cause bleeding damage to the body when used.”

Understanding Dexcom G6 CGM

Before we dive into the replacement process, let’s take a moment to understand how the Dexcom G6 CGM system works. Here are the three main components:

• Sensor: A discreet sensor is inserted into your skin that measures your glucose levels from interstitial blood.
• Transmitter: A detachable transmitter is attached to the sensor that wirelessly sends real-time glucose data to the receiver or compatible smart devices.
• Receiver/Smart Device: The receiver or smart device displays your glucose data, showing clear trends that help you make informed decisions about your diabetes management.

When does the Dexcom G6 sensor replacement is needed?

The Dexcom G6 sensor is designed to function for ten days, after this time span or if the CGM sensor expires before this period, replacement is required to ensure accurate glucose readings. Attempting to use the sensor beyond ten days may result in less reliable data and potential discomfort.

It’s important to note that the sensor may also need replacement if it becomes loose, damaged, or dislodged before the ten-day mark.

How to replace the Dexcom G6 sensor?

Replacing the Dexcom G6 sensor requires just a few simple steps. Following are some steps that you must not forget while replacing the Dexcom G6 sensor:

Gathering the necessary supplies

Before you begin the sensor replacement process, gather all the necessary supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. A new Dexcom G6 sensor
2. An alcohol swab or alcohol wipes
3. Skin wipes (optional but recommended)
4. A sensor applicator (usually provided in the G6 CGM system package)
5. A compatible receiver or smart device with the Dexcom G6 app installed

Ensure all your supplies are within reach to avoid interruptions during the replacement process.

Preparing for sensor replacement

Before starting the sensor replacement, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. It’s highly recommended to maintain clean hands throughout the process to prevent contamination. Once your hands are clean and dry, gather your supplies and sit in a well-lit, comfortable area.

Removing the old sensor

Now that you’re prepared for the sensor replacement, it’s time to remove the old sensor.

• End the Sensor Session: Before removal, stop the sensor session on your display device (smartphone or receiver) by selecting “Stop Sensor.”
• Remove the Sensor and Transmitter Together:
  Peel Off the Adhesive: Gently lift the edge of the adhesive patch and peel it away from your skin, similar to removing a bandage. The sensor and transmitter will come off together.

Detach the Transmitter from the Sensor Holder:

• Break the Sensor Holder: After removing the sensor and transmitter from your body, hold the wide, rounded edge of the sensor holder. Bend it down to break the holder and release the transmitter.
• Remove the Transmitter: Pull the transmitter straight out from the holder. Keep the transmitter for your next sensor, as it is reusable for up to 90 days.
• Dispose of the Used Sensor and Holder: Discard the used sensor and holder according to your local guidelines for disposing of medical waste.
• Clean the Application Site: Gently clean the area where the sensor was applied with fragrance-free soap and water. Ensure the area is dry before attaching a new sensor.

Preparing Preparing the New Sensor:

Unpack the Sensor: Remove the new Dexcom G6 sensor from its packaging, ensuring the packaging is intact and the sensor is not expired.

• Select an Insertion Site: Choose a site on your abdomen (for individuals aged 2 years and older) or upper buttocks (for ages 2-17). Avoid areas with scars, moles, tattoos, or irritation, and ensure the site is at least 3 inches away from insulin injection or infusion sites.
• Clean the Site: Wash your hands thoroughly. Clean the selected area with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry completely to minimize the risk of infection.

Inserting the New Sensor:

• Prepare the Applicator: Carefully peel off the adhesive backing from the sensor applicator, avoiding contact with the adhesive to maintain its stickiness.
• Position the Applicator: Place the applicator firmly against your skin at the cleaned insertion site.
• Insert the Sensor: Fold and break off the safety guard on the applicator’s orange button. Press the button to insert the sensor; you may hear a click indicating successful insertion.
• Remove the Applicator: Gently remove the applicator, leaving the sensor and adhesive patch securely attached to your skin.

Attaching the Transmitter:

• Clean the Transmitter: Wipe the transmitter with an alcohol swab and let it dry completely.
• Attach the Transmitter: Insert the transmitter tab into the slot on the sensor and press down until it clicks into place, ensuring it’s secure.
• Secure the Attachment: Run your finger around the edge of the sensor patch to confirm it’s adhering well to your skin.

Starting the Sensor Warm-up:

• Start the Warm-up: On your receiver or compatible smart device, start the new sensor session. The Dexcom G6 requires a 2-hour warm-up period before it begins displaying glucose readings.
• Wait Patiently: During this time, avoid making diabetes treatment decisions based on the sensor, as it calibrates to provide accurate data.

Verifying Sensor Accuracy:

• Monitor Glucose Readings: After the warm-up, monitor your glucose levels as displayed on your device.
• Assess Accuracy: If the readings don’t align with your expectations or symptoms, consult the Dexcom user guide for calibration instructions or contact Dexcom support for assistance.

Dexcom g6 sensor replacement:

In case your G6 sensor is not in order, such as it is broken, taking forever to start, or giving way too different readings than you have (this can be checked by comparing it with your blood glucose meter readings). Please note that there can be little differences due to the difference in mechanism of both devices. A BGM monitors your blood glucose directly from the blood, while a continuous glucose monitor measures it from your interstitial blood (just under the skin). These differences are measured in values known as MARD values.

However, if you are having trouble and it seems to you that the sensor is bad, you may simply contact Dexcom support at 1-844-607-8398 (available 24/7), or fill out a form to request a Dexcom G6 sensor replacement online. Please note that the attached form is for people using Dexcom within USA. If you are from Canada, you can fill out this Product Support Request form.

Disclaimer: This blog is only for informational purposes and the information provided is based upon research. Any medical action requires a doctor’s assistance.