Changing the Dexcom sensor - a photo lesson
I wanted to post on what it took to change the Dexcom sensor. This is a small amount of text and a lot of photos. You can click on any of them to see larger versions.If you've any questions, let me know.
First of all, here's a picture of the old site.
And here's what the sensor looks like after it was removed. It's quite long, but not painful while it's in place.
After choosing a new location where there isn't scarring from insulin pump sets, I used an alcohol swab to clean the new site.
Then I positioned the new Dexcom sensor.
After making sure it's stuck in place, I remove the safety lock.
Then I can push the plunger to get the needle and sensor inserted. This is probably the worst part of the entire process, thought it's really only a small pinch.
Then I pull back on the collar, which remove the needle and leaves the sensor wire in place. Once I've had a little discomfort doing this.
I remove the applicator. The blue pad sometimes swings out a little. The first time I saw this I thought it was broken.
Finally I use the transmitter latch to lock the transmitter into place. This takes a little practice. You can also do it just by pressing with your fingers.
And here's the finished result. You can also see the trace of the old sensor location.
posted by Bernard @ 9:21 PM
8 Comments:
I know this is gonna sound lame but THAT LOOKS SO SCARY!! I am sure I could handle it but it is like how I turn my head when I see needles in movie. So lame for a T1 to hate to look at needles!
Anyhow, thanks for the updates, it is awesome even if i freak a little. :)
The longer I am on the pump the more I hate inserting sets. I thought It would get easier. I have tired lots of different ones. They all look like harpoons. These kids that pump are all so much braver than me. I know they don't hurt all the time but still I hate them. I often feel like going back to the 6 shots per day.
Anyways my point is I don't think I Could EVER use one of those gadjets, they look scary as hell.
sorry, just a question. can you order syringes online? i have an insulin pen now that annoys me alot. i have had syringes before butmy doctor is all for the pen. just wondering if yu knew??? thanks
vicki
Bernard,
I am just starting to learn about the CGMS. Do you (or will you) always wear the sensors on your tummy (sorry...Mommy-talk!) or are there other sites where it will work?
Paige
Paige
In the user guide for the Dexcom they always talk about using your abdomen (belly in their manual).
I think the sensor is long enough it needs somewhere that has a good layer of fat.
I'll bet there are some people trying it out in different places. Maybe look at the CGMS discussion group on Yahoo! and you'll get some idea.
I hope this helps.
Bernard,
Thanks a BIG BUNCH for sharing your great photos and description of the DexCom CGM needle insertion.
For a glance at the easy, painless future, see my article on the web: "Toard Continuous Blood Glucose Monitoring".
We are a start-up in need of $'s to complete our testing and development to benefit millions of people with diabetes. Do you know any Angel Investores?
Please contact me to know more.
Keep on Pumping.
Regards,
Albert P. Kretz, Ph.D., MBA
Presidnet/Founder
Advanced BioSensors, Inc.
email: info@advancedbiosensors.com
Phone: 440-918-9880
Cell: 440-231-1039
Dr. Al's paper can be found on the Medical Device Link site.
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