The importance of proper CGM usage
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) systems, like Dexcom G7, have transformed diabetes management by providing real-time glucose insights and reducing the need for fingersticks. However, incorrect use can cause inaccurate readings or frustration. Research shows that about 30% of CGM users face issues related to sensor placement, calibration, or connectivity (American Diabetes Association, 2023). Another study in Diabetes Care found that nearly 40% of users experience data inaccuracies due to improper handling. Avoiding these mistakes ensures better accuracy, reliability, and comfort.
1. Incorrect sensor placement
📌 The mistake: Placing the sensor on high-movement areas or near scar tissue, which leads to inconsistent readings.
✅ Solution: Apply Dexcom sensors on the abdomen or upper arm, as recommended. Make sure the area is clean, dry, and free of lotion. Studies show correct placement improves accuracy by up to 25% (Endocrine Society, 2023).
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2. Ignoring warm-up time
📌 The mistake: Using sensor readings immediately after insertion, before proper calibration.
✅ Solution: Dexcom G7 requires a 30-minute warm-up. Waiting ensures stable, accurate data and prevents false highs or lows. Research in The Journal of Diabetes Science & Technology found premature use increases reading variability by 18% (JDST, 2023).
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3. Ignoring alerts and notifications
📌 The mistake: Disabling or overlooking high and low glucose alerts, missing important safety warnings.
✅ Solution: Customize alert thresholds based on your goals. Use the Dexcom Clarity app to track trends and enable caregiver alerts if needed. Patients who actively use alerts experience a 30% reduction in severe hypoglycemia episodes (Clinical Diabetes Journal, 2023).
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4. Mishandling sensor adhesion
📌 The mistake: Sensors falling off early due to sweat, poor prep, or physical activity.
✅ Solution: Use Dexcom overpatches or adhesive barriers like Skin Tac. Research shows proper adhesion extends sensor wear by 3 extra days (Diabetes Technology & Therapeutics, 2023).
5. Misinterpreting glucose trends
📌 The mistake: Reacting to single highs or lows instead of observing overall trends.
✅ Solution: Use Dexcom Clarity to track long-term patterns and avoid overcorrecting insulin or food intake. A JAMA study showed that patients who focus on trends improve HbA1c by an average of 0.7%.
Why choose Dexcom CGM from QuickFill RX?
At QuickFill RX, we make your CGM experience smooth, accurate, and stress-free:
- Comprehensive CGM support — Learn more
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📞 Get started today! Contact QuickFill RX at 818-457-4011 to simplify your CGM journey and optimize diabetes management with Dexcom G7.