How to Apply Your LinX CGM Sensor: A Painless Step-by-Step Guide
A Reassuring Guide to Sensor Application
Applying your first CGM sensor can feel intimidating, but the LinX system is designed to make this process as simple and comfortable as possible. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right spot to ensuring the sensor is securely in place. Following these instructions carefully will help ensure both your comfort and the accuracy of your glucose readings.
Before You Begin: Choosing the Best Site
Selecting an appropriate application site is the first and most important step. A good site will be comfortable and less likely to be bumped or disturbed during your daily activities.
Recommended Areas: The best locations for the sensor are the outside of the upper arm and the back of the upper arm. These areas typically have enough fatty tissue and are less prone to movement and impact.
Areas to AVOID: To prevent discomfort, skin irritation, and inaccurate readings, you must avoid applying the sensor to areas with:
- Scars, moles, stretch marks, or lumps.
- Irritated, broken, or tattooed skin.
- Lots of hair (you may need to trim the area).
- Loose skin or areas without enough fat over the muscle.
- Locations that get bumped, pushed, or leaned on while sleeping.
- Anywhere within 2.5 cm (1 inch) of an insulin injection or infusion site.
Rotate Your Sites: To give your skin time to heal and to avoid irritation, always choose a different site from the one you used last time.
Step 1: Skin Preparation is Key
Proper skin preparation is critical for ensuring the sensor's adhesive sticks securely for its entire wear duration.
Wash the selected area with plain soap and water (avoid moisturizing or oily soaps).
Dry the area completely.
Clean the site with the provided alcohol pad and let it air dry. The skin must be 100% clean and dry before you proceed. Any moisture or oily residue can prevent the sensor from adhering properly.
Step 2: Preparing the Applicator
Before opening the sterile package, visually inspect it.
Critical Cautions:
- Do not use the sensor applicator if its sterile package or safety seal is damaged or appears to have been opened.
- Check the expiration date on the package and do not use an expired sensor.
- Once the cover is removed, do not touch the inside of the applicator, as this is sterile and contains the needle.
When you are ready, remove the cover from the sensor applicator and set it aside.
Step 3: Applying the Sensor
This is the moment of application. The process is designed to be quick and straightforward.
Take a deep breath. Place the applicator opening firmly against your prepared skin site—don't be afraid to apply gentle pressure to ensure it is flush with your skin. Now, press the implantation button in one quick, confident motion. You will hear a "click" as the sensor is inserted. It is important to know that the small needle that guides the sensor into place retracts instantly back into the applicator; it is never left in your skin. Keep the applicator held against your skin for a few extra seconds after the click to allow the adhesive to get a good bond, then gently pull the applicator straight back and away from your body.
Step 4: Final Check and What to Expect
The sensor should now be attached to your skin. Gently press down on the adhesive patch around the sensor to make sure it is secure.
It is normal to experience minor bruising or a small amount of bleeding at the insertion site. This usually stops quickly. However, if bleeding persists, you should remove the sensor, apply pressure to the site, and apply a new sensor in a different location. Once you have confirmed the sensor is secure, place the cover back on the used applicator for safe disposal.
Next Step: With the sensor successfully applied, the final step is to activate it by pairing it with your app. The next guide will cover the pairing process and the one-hour warm-up period.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is the best place to apply the LinX CGM sensor?
- The best locations for the sensor are the outside of the upper arm and the back of the upper arm. These areas typically have enough fatty tissue and are less prone to movement and impact.
- What areas should I avoid when applying the sensor?
- To prevent discomfort and inaccurate readings, avoid applying the sensor to areas with scars, moles, stretch marks, lumps, irritated or tattooed skin, dense hair, or loose skin. Also, avoid locations that get bumped or leaned on, and keep the sensor at least 2.5 cm (1 inch) away from any insulin injection or infusion site.
- Why is it important to rotate sensor application sites?
- You should always choose a different site from the one you used last time to give your skin time to heal and to avoid irritation.
- How should I prepare my skin before applying the sensor?
- Wash the selected area with plain soap and water, and dry it completely. Then, clean the site with the provided alcohol pad and let it air dry. The skin must be 100% clean and dry before you proceed to ensure the sensor adheres properly.
- What should I do if the sensor's package is damaged or expired?
- Do not use the sensor applicator if its sterile package or safety seal is damaged or appears to have been opened. Also, check the expiration date on the package and do not use an expired sensor.
- Is it normal to experience bleeding or bruising after applying the sensor?
- It is normal to experience minor bruising or a small amount of bleeding at the insertion site, which usually stops quickly. However, if bleeding persists, you should remove the sensor, apply pressure to the site, and apply a new sensor in a different location.
