You have received your Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM)! YAY!
Let's walk you through how to put on your CGM and answer some common questions.
Applying and Activating Your CGM
Applying your sensor can be intimidating, but there are ways to optimize your experience and ensure the sensor stays put! First, be sure to watch this video for a brief overview of the application process. Then follow our step-by-step tutorial below to help guide you through the sensor application process.
If you are looking for helpful tips to place your sensor, check out this resource first, then come back here for a step-by-step guide to place your sensor!
What's in My Box?
Step 1
Choose the portion of the back of your arm with the most fat. Alternate arms between sensors.
The Abbott Freestyle Libre has not been approved for any other location on the body.
Step 2
Only apply the sensor to clean skin. Always clean the area with the alcohol wipe before applying. If you have oily skin, consider a gentle exfoliation beforehand.
Step 3
Peel off the sensor pack and twist the sensor applicator so it is undone.
Step 4
Line up dark marks on the sensor applicator and sensor pack.
Step 5
Connect the 2 pieces. Use a hard surface and push down (sometimes you can hear a click)
Step 6
A. In the gray applicator, the small needle should now be visible.
B. Do not set the applicator down.
C. Don’t be nervous, insertion might feel like a tiny pinch or nothing at all.
Step 7
Push firmly to apply the sensor - it doesn't hurt! - You are all set!
Step 8
The use of the included adhesive bandage is strongly encouraged to protect the sensor during use. If possible, do not remove the bandage during sensor wear, as this can increase the risk of accidental sensor removal. If you need to remove the bandage at any time, cut the bandage off carefully and replace it with another bandage.
When applying the bandage, it is best not to remove the middle piece of the white backing so that only the outside ring of the bandage has the sticky side exposed. Only remove the 4 outermost pieces so that your bandage does not pull on the CGM upon removal and instead is only stuck to your skin.
If you have an active lifestyle, we recommend considering additional skin adhesive wipes (like Skin Tac or Skin-Prep wipes) in addition to the NutriSense bandage.
If you have a reaction to the adhesive bandages provided or have any other concerns about your sensor wear, please message your dietitian or the NutriSense support team. We’re happy to help you find what works best for you!
IMPORTANT: Once the sensor has been applied, it cannot be re-applied or adjusted. Make sure to not test the application as it can only be done once.
Each CGM lasts for 14 days and allows you to monitor your glucose levels 24/7 without any blood being drawn. At the end of the sensor's life, you will be notified in the app once you have less than 24 hours left. Here is how to tell if your sensor is activated/expired.
In an effort to take care of the earth, we are directing members to the Abbott Sensor Kit Take-Back Pilot while available to recycle their kit with purpose. The program recycles the CGM applicator while the CGM sensor (applied to arm) can be discarded at home. Don't worry, there is no needle in the CGM, so it is safe to throw out.
Now that your sensor is on, let's activate it!