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Dexcom Setup Step 3: Apply your Dexcom Sensor

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If you use the Freestyle Libre CGM, navigate to Setting Up Your Levels with FreeStyle Libre CGM.

Overview:

Here’s how to prepare and apply your Dexcom CGM.

Please note that you should not apply your sensor and/or transmitter during the following times:
  • During or immediately after a meal. A glucose spike during application can impact the accuracy of the CGM. Try to wait at least 2+ hours after eating to apply.
  • Within 20 minutes of ending your previous CGM. If this is your first time applying a CGM, you can disregard this advice.
  • Right before bed. This is optional but recommended. You may experience alarms going off throughout the night due to pressure from sleeping on the CGM.

How to Apply your Dexcom Sensor

  1. Pick a spot to apply your sensor: The Dexcom G6 sensors should be applied to your upper arm. A few best practices to consider: 
    • Select a spot with a little extra softness. 
    • Try to avoid the muscle and aim for the more fleshy area.
  2. Clean the spot you’ve chosen with the alcohol wipes. Make sure it fully dries before applying.
  3. Apply the applicator on the chosen spot on your arm: 
    1. Aim to orient it parallel to your arm for the most comfort.
    2. Try to avoid the muscle and aim for the more fleshy area. 
    3. Choose a spot away from waistbands, scarring, tattoos, irritation, and bones that is unlikely to be bumped, pushed, or laid on while sleeping
    4. Peel the adhesive cover with the 4-digit code. Don't throw this away as you'll need to scan it or manually enter the 4-digit code to start this new sensor session. 
    5. Apply the adhesive to your skin and press gently to make sure it sticks. 
    6. Bend and break the safety guard to unlock button on the applicator.
    7. Let the sensor rest at equilibrium in the spot where you’ve stuck the adhesive, and gently push the button without pushing on the whole applicator. 
    8. Once you hear a click, pull the applicator away. The sensor is inserted.
One more application tip:
  • Change your insertion site with each sensor. We recommend applying the new sensor 1/4- 1/2 inch away from the last site, or alternating arms. Using the same site too often might not allow the skin to heal, causing scarring or skin irritation.

After initial application, it is normal to feel some sensations while getting used to the sensor on your arm. But if you experience persistent pain or discomfort, please review the following article for more information on how to help: FAQ: What if I feel pain or discomfort with my sensor?

Once you have applied your Dexcom Sensor, click Setup Step 4 below:

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