To some degree I was having some issues with the CGM (Continuous Glucose Monitoring). One of the things that was getting frustrating was the fact that readings were all over the place. I realize that the trends are the most important but it is hard to believe a trend when the readings are 60+ points off. The other issue is sites for the CGM sensors as it is very limited. I sleep on my stomach or left side so that makes it hard for the pump to be there and the transmitter for the CGM needs line of sight to work well.
I decided when I got back from vacation to call my clinical nurse from Medtronic. We chatted about the issues I was having with consistency in the readings and the trends. She was very helpful with some suggestions and off I went to try to get better at this diabetes management.
First thing that was discussed and with a new site have proven to myself that it does matter is that securely taping the sensor/transmitter makes a difference. When I started using the CGM I used an entire IV3000 dressing to cover the entire site. It was sort of effective but sweat and and water took its toll pretty quick. the area of skin, especially under the transmitter part needed to breathe. I then recalled reading in one of the workbooks or online that using have a strip to cover the sensor and part of the transmitter was a good way to go. This made a tremendous difference in comfort. I assume I got lazy with the securing of the CGM with the IV3000 as the nurse suggested to me to make sure it is secure and even use a wipe before putting on the IV3000 to make sure it bonds well and won't move. The reasoning is that if it is a little loose and moving around it could be coming out slightly and messing up the readings.
The second part of my discussion was concern over finding other areas to use for the sensor where it would still work with transmitting to the pump. I had used mostly my abdomen but I saw an issue that soon one side was going to be over used. I also tried some areas on my back above the belt line but those were very ineffective and erratic. She suggested using my upper buttock below the belt line. I told her, "Just say butt!" I was a little apprehensive about putting the sensor on my butt, the current look and insertion method was a little scary. Plus I was worried about sitting, running, sleeping, etc. The insertion part was not bad, a few yoga classes would certainly help. I didn't get in secured very well the first day as I had my golf league and readings were very inconsistent but I was willing to stick it out. The next morning I secured it better and since then it has been working much better. The readings are more accurate and the trends seem to be right on. The only time I notice the sensor on my rear is when I am driving, but other than that it is less bothersome as it is also covered by my underwear so it gets a little bit more support.
I am very happy with this new site placement and hope that it continues to give me a better rotation. In addition, my three year old won't be able to yank it off like she has done twice now in the last month, and her accidental sensor removal is not gentle.
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