Summertime often means higher temps and humidity, which can be tricky when wearing an infusion set and CGM, but don’t sweat. 😊 Here are a few of our top tips to help with site management. If you find that it’s harder to keep your infusion set or glucose sensor in place as temps and humidity begin to rise, here are a few things you can do that may help.
1. Proper site insertion is key.
- Make sure to insert your infusion set or sensor at least 2 inches away from your belly button. Avoid inserting where your body naturally bends and where there is scar tissue. This will help make sure your site is in the best spot and isn’t in a place where extra sweat may sit (which can reduce stickiness).
2. Secure your site.
- Avoid using lotions or cremes that may make it harder for the adhesive to stick, and prepare your site with alcohol to prevent infection and help the adhesive better stick to your skin. You may also consider using a prep wipe around your site [1] area to help your infusion set adhere better. Just make sure to let the area dry completely before inserting.
- In addition to things like liquid adhesives or prep wipes, there are other ways you can try to help the adhesive stick. For example, you can use a solid or spray non-deodorant antiperspirant for sweaty skin (no gels or creams). All you need to do is apply it to the site area and wait 10-15 minutes for it to dry. Then clean the site to remove any excess antiperspirant from skin and allow it to dry completely before insertion. Who knew antiperspirant had so many uses?!
3. Consider more adhesive.
- If you’re active in different ways during summer and find that you are sweating more, you may need to add some extra tape, so your sites stay secure. You may find that different techniques could work better for either your infusion set or sensor.
- For example, people who need more staying power with their sensors may find the “blanket tape method” to be helpful. After applying the sensor and connecting the transmitter, use a piece of suitable over-tape that covers the entire sensor and transmitter. Here’s a helpful resource for you [2] with more information on different taping techniques and site management tips.
If you have specific questions for what will work best for you, be sure check in with your healthcare team. Happy sites, happy summer!
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Medtronic Diabetes insulin infusion pumps, continuous glucose monitoring systems and associated components are limited to sale by or on the order of a physician and should only be used under the direction of a healthcare professional familiar with the risks associated with the use of these systems.
Successful operation of the insulin infusion pumps and/or continuous glucose monitoring systems requires adequate vision and hearing to recognize alerts and alarms.
Medtronic Diabetes Insulin Infusion Pumps
Insulin pump therapy is not recommended for individuals who are unable or unwilling to perform a minimum of four blood glucose tests per day.
Insulin pumps use rapid-acting insulin. If your insulin delivery is interrupted for any reason, you must be prepared to replace the missed insulin immediately.
Medtronic Diabetes Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) Systems
The information provided by CGM systems is intended to supplement, not replace, blood glucose information obtained using a home glucose meter. A confirmatory fingerstick is required prior to treatment.
Insertion of a glucose sensor may cause bleeding or irritation at the insertion site. Consult a physician immediately if you experience significant pain or if you suspect that the site is infected.
For more information, please visit: MedtronicDiabetes.com/ISI.