How Is A CGM Sensor Attached On A Pet?

1. ASSEMBLE THE REQUIRED THINGS

First and foremost, you must collect the correct CGM device for your pet. We recommend the FirmPet CGM sensor as it is FDA approved and tested. Before beginning the process, you must gather all the needed things like skin glue, shaving razor, clippers, scissors, Artery forceps etc. Apart from things, you can ask an assistant and handler to help you make the pet comfortable.

2. GET A PRESCRIPTION FROM THE VETERINARIAN & CLEAR SKIN

Take an ‘off-label’ prescription from an authorized veterinary doctor before jumping into a CGM device. It assures the legality of using CGM devices on pets. Next, we know, CGMs are implanted directly on the skin. In the case of pets, you must contend with their body hair to install it. Clear a square inch of the pet’s skin with a shaving razor and scissors.

3. PREPARE THE SKIN WITH ADHESIVE

The ideal body spot is after the front legs and a few inches after the spine. Next, use the alcohol wipes in the kit to clean the skin and let it dry. If you witness more dirt on the skin, scrub it with 2% chlorhexidine solution and use a spirit swab to wipe the skin. Apply this adhesive in a doughnut shape. Allow it to air dry for at least 60 seconds.

4. UNBOX THE APPLICATOR AND SENSOR DEVICE

Check the sensor pack and remove its film. Also, undo the sensor applicator device and arrange the dark marks. The applicator is used to implant a sensor on the pet, while the sensor gets the glucose readings and submit data to the FirmPet app. Read the instructions manual provided with the kit to insert the sensor into the application device carefully. You can see the needle but don’t touch it.

5. IMPLANT THE SENSOR ON THE SITE

Hold your pet in a way that it doesn’t move. Place the loaded sensor applicator on the prepared site and press firmly. You can feel and hear the sensor inserted into that spot. Make sure to give a moderate pressure until the click sound is heard. You can use firm pressure around 10-20 seconds later.

6. GENTLY REMOVE THE SENSOR

Now, carefully remove the sensor applicator from the skin. You may use forceps to hold the position of the sensor in the meantime. Prevent accidental ejection of the sensor from the pet by gently doing the task. Apply a small amount of skin glue underneath the paper below the sensor’s circumference. It will ensure the static placement of the sensor.

7. CHECK THE READINGS

Put the reader on the sensor for an instant new patient set up. Usually, it takes over an hour to get the readings after inserting the sensor. You can get the readings directly on the FirmPet app very conveniently. Confirm the accuracy and similarity of readings by comparing them with the actual peripheral blood glucose level readings.