How exactly to you calibrate a CGMS?

[Jacob'sDad]

We've been debating whether to get Jacob a CGMS. WE haven't been to any classes yet.
I was wondering how exactly a CGMS is calibrated.
i know you do it with finger pokes but how accurate is that? Doesn't the 20% potential error in the meter throw it off? Do you just poke once or do you poke more than once and average the results?

Thanks

[WestinsMom]

We poke once. I am most concerned that it be a fairly stable number. The stabler the better. I don't think anyone here is looking for their CGMS to be spot on (although it actually does happen at times). I know I am just looking for an "idea" of where Westin is and an "idea" of where he is headed. As long as that is achieved, I am happy.

[hrermgr]

We calibrate 2-3 times per day. The minilink needs to be calibrated every 12 hours--we were told not to calibrate more than 3 times in a day. It's done at a time of a regular finger poke. We do it when T's numbers are stable-first thing in the morning before breakfast, after nap time and before bed--usually our bed. If we calibrate at times of BG fluctuation, (right after a meal, before treating a low or high) it takes about 2-3 more calibrations before the numbers are close.

Yeah, the numbers are not "exact" but having the arrows up or down (fast changing BG) have been very handy and allowed us to treat a low or high before an extreme! Also, the ability to see trends on the graph and after downloading the data on CareLink has allowed us to make changes quickly.

Calibrating is probably one of the easiest part of the minilink.

[Rachel]

We also calibrate 2-3 times a day. If the bg is over 180 or so, I'll usually "double-dip" and take the lower of the two readings. (I'd rather error on the side of the cgm reading lower than higher.)

[KarenRI]

I agree with the above replies. Calibrate at times when blood sugars are stable.

My son is on the Minimed CGM. I first look at the 3 hour graph, and if I see a flatline for at least the past hour, then I will calibrate. I have found the best times are upon wakening in the morning, and an hour after bedtime. I will try to squeeze in another one or two calibrations in between.

To actually perform a calibration:

Once you know your child's BS by fingerstick, push ACT.
Select SENSOR
Select ENTER METER BG
Enter the finger stick number.
Press ACT. It's calibrated.

The Minimed also gives you another option to calibrate when you are entering a BS at a time you will be bolusing for food or for a correction.
The pump will ask you if you want to use the finger stick number as an "Enter Meter BG" meaning, as a calibration number. I usually do not calibrate this way, because I don't often see a flatline graph at mealtimes.
Once in a great while it will work out where I can use it, but it isn't often.

So the physical act of calibrating is very easy. You just need to time the calibrations well and catch those stable BS's in time. I think CGM works well if you are able to get good calibrations.

Good luck!

[Jacob'sDad]

Thanks for the replies. That clears things up for me a great deal. I think I will sign us up for a CGMS class as soon as I get responses to my next topic. Please look for it.

Thanks again.

[rickst29]

well, it goes like this:

Dexcom: "Feed me, Seymour!"

Rick: "Darn it Audrey, I just did that 12 hours ago!"

Dexcom: "But I'm hungry, need more...."

Rick: "But I just gave you Mr. Anderson AND his wife, only 12 hours ago! I'm running out of neighbors, and someone's gonna notice." :mad::mad:

Dexcom: "F-F-FEED ME!" (Buzzes again, shows GIANT blood drop on the screen.)

Rick: (rolling eyes) "Oh, all right." (And mumbles "here we go again, and I know it's gonna have the One-Touch showing just one or two points off the Dexcom AGAIN." ;)

------ Now, PLEASE don't ask me how my appointment at the dentist went. ------

[rickst29]

I thought that was one of my finest posts, ever :o

[Mama2H]

I thought it was hilarious :D I remember watching that movie :o