From: The role of continuous glucose monitoring in the care of children with type 1 diabetes
Problem | Potential solution |
---|---|
• Painful sensor insertions. | • Apply a lidocaine-based cream 45 to 60 minutes prior to insertion. |
• Apply a cool pack prior to insertion (may increase the risk of bleeding at the insertion site). | |
• Sensors do not adhere to the skin or cause irritation. | • Different tapes and wraps may need to be used. |
• Tegaderm, or a moleskin tape (Duoderm), can be placed under the sensor and transmitter to act as a barrier. | |
• Too many “nuisance alarms” that do not agree with SMBG. | • Explain the concept of “lag time” upfront. |
• Limit calibration to times when blood glucose levels are not changing rapidly. | |
• Lower alarm threshold to 70 mg/dL, and use only the low glucose alarm when first starting CGM. |