· By Shopify API
How to Apply Your Dexcom G7 Patch for Long-Lasting Wear
- Prepare your skin: Clean with soap and alcohol, trim hair (don’t shave), and use adhesive enhancers like Skin Tac or Mastisol.
- Pick the right spot: Upper arm works best. Avoid areas with scars, tattoos, or near waistbands.
- Apply correctly: Press firmly for 10 seconds, smooth out edges, and apply at room temperature.
- Add overpatches: Use options like Pump Peelz for extra hold.
- Daily care: Limit water exposure, manage sweat, and secure loose edges with Tegaderm or Flexifix strips.
Quick Tip: For active days, waterproof or moisture-resistant patches can keep your sensor secure. Follow these steps to avoid detachment, maintain accurate readings, and prevent irritation.
Applying the Dexcom G7 Overpatch
1. Skin Preparation
Getting the skin ready is key to making sure the sensor stays in place longer. A well-prepped surface helps reduce the chances of early detachment.
Best Places to Apply
For kids aged 2-6, the upper buttocks is a recommended spot [5]. Avoid these areas:
- Skin with scars, tattoos, or irritation
- Places that bend or flex often
- Near clothing waistbands
- Within 3 inches of insulin pump or injection sites [3]
After choosing the right spot, it's time to prepare the skin properly.
Clean and Prep Skin
-
Clean the Area
Wash the site with soap and water, then wipe it with alcohol. Let it air dry completely [3]. -
Manage Hair
Trim hair with clippers instead of shaving. Razors can irritate the skin and cause tiny cuts, which may weaken the adhesive [3].
Use Adhesive Products
Start by applying a skin barrier (like Cavilon or Skin Prep). Then, use an adhesive enhancer (such as Skin Tac or Mastisol) in a circular pattern around the site. Allow each layer to dry for 30-60 seconds before moving on [1][2][5].
Choosing the right spot is just the beginning - how you apply the sensor is just as important.
2. Sticker and Sensor Placement
Correct Positioning
Once your skin is prepped, it's time to focus on placing the sensor accurately:
The back of the upper arm is the go-to spot. Make sure the sensor is positioned horizontally for the best results [3].
If you're applying it to your abdomen, sit down to help smooth the skin and avoid any wrinkles in the adhesive [1].
Apply Even Pressure
Getting the sensor to stick well requires applying the right amount of pressure:
- Initial Application: Hold your palm firmly over the sensor for at least 10 seconds [3]. This helps the adhesive bond securely to your skin.
- Circular Motion: Gently rub in circular motions, starting from the center and moving outward. This step ensures the edges are well-secured and reduces the chance of peeling [2][3].
Room Temperature Tips
Temperature plays a big role in how well the adhesive works. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Storage: If the sensor has been stored somewhere cold, allow it to warm up to room temperature (68°F to 77°F or 20°C to 25°C) before use [5].
- Timing: Avoid applying the sensor right after a hot shower or in a humid bathroom [4].
- Environment Control: If you're in a hot or humid climate, use a fan or air conditioning to lower the humidity during application [4].
Once applied, wait 10-15 minutes before engaging in activities or getting the sensor wet. This helps the adhesive set properly [5].
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3. Adding Overpatches
Overpatch Choices
Once your sensor is in place, you can improve its adhesion with overpatches. Here’s a quick comparison of popular options:
| Feature | Dexcom Standard | Pump Peelz | Skin Grip |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material | Medical acrylic | Hypoallergenic vinyl | Breathable fabric |
| Design Options | Solid color | 200+ custom patterns | Skin-tone colors |
| Wear Time | 10 days | 10-14 days | 10 days |
If you’re active and want something stylish, Pump Peelz stands out with over 200 patterns [3].
Best Time and Method for Application
The ideal time to apply an overpatch is right after inserting the sensor but before the warm-up period begins [1]. This helps prevent the edges from peeling early [1].
Follow these steps for proper application:
- Clean the area: Use an alcohol wipe around the sensor site and let it dry completely.
- Align and place: Peel off half of the backing paper, align the overpatch with the sensor, and press it down.
- Smooth it out: Use firm pressure, working from the center outward, to ensure a secure fit.
The G7 overpatch is designed to cover an extra 1/2 inch around the sensor [7].
For extra staying power:
- Warm the overpatch with your hands for about 30-60 seconds after applying it.
- Add a second overpatch after 3-5 days if needed [1][3].
These tips can help your sensor stay put, even during active days.
4. Daily Care and Maintenance
Taking care of your sensor daily helps it last longer and work properly.
Manage Sweat and Water
Moisture can weaken the adhesive holding your sensor in place. To protect it:
- Limit water exposure to no more than 30 minutes during activities like swimming or bathing.
- Avoid pointing the shower spray directly at the sensor [3].
- After getting wet, pat the area dry and use a cool hair dryer briefly to ensure it's completely dry [2].
For sweat-related challenges, here are some practical solutions:
| Activity | Suggested Fix |
|---|---|
| Swimming/Bathing | Use a waterproof overlay patch |
| High-Intensity Exercise | Apply a moisture-wicking patch |
| Outdoor Activities | Opt for a moisture-resistant overlay |
Secure Loose Edges
Despite careful application, the edges of your sensor may lift during daily wear. Acting quickly when this happens helps maintain its accuracy.
- Clean around the lifted edges with an alcohol wipe and let it dry completely [3].
- For extra reinforcement, use Tegaderm or Opsite Flexifix strips. Cut small pieces to cover only the lifting areas, making sure not to cover the entire sensor [1][3].
Prevent Skin Irritation
Skin irritation can happen due to moisture buildup or sensitivity to the adhesive. To minimize this:
- Keep the area around the sensor dry, especially in humid conditions.
- Rotate application sites weekly to give your skin a break.
Conclusion
To get the most out of your Dexcom G7's 10-day wear, focus on preparation, proper application, and regular care. Start with thorough skin preparation to ensure strong adhesion from the beginning[6].
Placement matters too. Applying the sensor with even pressure helps secure the adhesive to your skin[3]. For extra support, especially during physical activity, use the included overpatch to keep the sensor in place.
Daily care is key to extending the sensor's lifespan. By consistently following these steps and staying mindful of your surroundings, you can maintain reliable sensor performance and accurate glucose readings throughout the recommended wear period.
FAQs
What is the best adhesive for the Dexcom G7?
To get the best stick, pair these adhesives with the application methods mentioned in the Overpatch section.
For the best outcome:
- Start with clean, dry skin.
- Press firmly around the edges to ensure it sticks well.
- Experiment with different adhesives during non-critical times to see what works for you.
Keep in mind, results can vary depending on your skin type, activity level, and surrounding conditions [1][2]. Stick to the placement tips shared earlier to ensure the best performance.
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