Guardian Force Sensor Insertion Steps

Aug 23, 2024

Guardian Force Sensor Insertion Guide

Introduction

  • Instruction on inserting a Guardian Force sensor
  • Wait for healthcare provider's instruction before inserting

Supplies Needed

  • Guardian Force sensor
  • One Press Serger
  • Oval tape
  • Fully charged transmitter
  • Alcohol wipe
  • Optional: liquid adhesive
  • Optional: other adhesives
  • Gauze
  • Sharps container

Preparation

  1. Hand Hygiene: Wash hands before starting
  2. Remove Existing Sensor:
    • If wearing a sensor, remove it first
    • Remove tape covering transmitter
    • Pinch flexible arms of the sensor and pull transmitter away to disconnect
    • Peel off oval tape and loosen the sensor adhesive tab
    • Discard removed sensor in Sharps container
  3. Clean Transmitter: Follow user guide for cleaning
  4. Recharge Transmitter: Place back in charger

Sensor Insertion Site Selection

  • Recommended site: back of the upper arm
  • Approved for ages 7 and older
  • Assistance may be needed for insertion
  • Caution: Only for arm use, avoid abdomen and buttocks to prevent performance issues
  • Rotate insertion sites to prevent overuse
  • Avoid muscle, tough skin, scar tissue, and areas constrained by clothing
  • Cleaning: Clean site with alcohol and allow to dry

Preparing the Guardian Force Sensor

  1. Open Package: Remove the sensor carefully without touching the sensor or needle housing
  2. Positioning: Place sensor on a clean flat surface, ensuring adhesive tab is tucked

Using the One Press Serger

  1. Hold the serger with thumb on the thumbprint
  2. Push it down onto the sensor and pedestal until it clicks
  3. Detach serger by holding it straight up after clicking
  4. Insertion:
    • Place the serger at the prepared site
    • Press both green buttons simultaneously to insert sensor
    • Hold the serger in place for adhesive to stick before removing

After Insertion

  • Needle Removal:
    • Hold gauze around the sensor and gently remove the needle housing
    • Discard in Sharps container
  • Managing Bleeding: If bleeding occurs, apply steady pressure with gauze for up to three minutes

Optional Adhesive Application

  1. Use liquid adhesive (e.g. Skin tack) to secure the sensor
  2. Wipe adhesive pad and surrounding area, let dry
  3. Press adhesive pad against skin
  4. Flip adhesive tab flat against skin, do not remove liner yet

Applying Oval Tape

  1. Remove backing marked with number one
  2. Apply tape to cover the sensor and skin
  3. Smooth tape and remove remaining tabs

Connecting the Transmitter

  1. Ensure transmitter is charged
  2. Remove from charger and check for flashing green light
  3. Push transmitter onto the sensor until it clicks
  4. Verify the green light flashes then turns off
  5. Secure adhesive tab over transmitter without pulling tightly
  6. Apply second piece of oval tape over transmitter and skin

Final Steps

  • Wait for pump to recognize the new sensor (may take up to 5 minutes)
  • Select 'start new sensor' when prompted
  • Sensor warm-up period lasts 2 hours before readings begin

Conclusion

  • Ensure adherence to instructions for successful sensor usage.