When you got your Dexcom, did you just watch the video and start it yourself, or go to the CDE? When the DME company called me to finalize the order for my Dexcom, he said "there is no formal training-just watch the video". I feel like I can do it after watching the video, so I might just do that. My CDE didn't mention anything about coming back for training on that-just the pump training, which I'm doing today. Unfortunately, the Dexcom is "on the truck for delivery" and probably will get here after I leave for the appointment. I would rather not go in to be trained-another bill- if it's something I could handle on my own. Thanks!
I'd suggest trying it yourself first. I did it myself, it's not difficult.
I did it myself, following along with the video, and did just fine. It's not difficult at all.
Video is all you need … Pretty easy! Good luck!
my CDE trained me. I also watched the video as well. I learned more from watching the video. This device was a newer model than my cde was aware of at the time
We went to my son's endo, but I think that was more for them to generate revenue from the office visit and was not necessary. :)
I watched the video and got it wrong the first time (probably because I am an idiot and was stressed about it and not because it was hard) called dexcom and they said please don;t try it again on my own because it could lead me to be discouraged and give up and they wanted to make sure I was completely comfortable with it. They arranged for me to meet one of their trained nurse/educators at an office near my home for free within about a week (she was on vacation). SHe took her time and showed me exactly what I did wrong (did not pull the needle all the way back up when I inserted it) gave me a few useful tips and a free sensor to replace the one I messed up. The video is good and I think most people can do it after watching it a couple of times, but Dexcom will help if there is a problem. Good luck and do read comments in this section for some helpful advice to get the most out of your dex
I did the initial insertion myself after watching the video. Then a few days later I met with the local CDE/rep from Dexcom and she went over the finer points with me and we downloaded my receiver to the computer.
First, make sure that your insurance covers the training. It’s incredibly easy to set up. You just need the high low settings from your endo. You might want to tweak those later.
I followed the video quite easily. Setting it up myself was a breeze!
I definitely agree about offices wanting the revenue.
I'd say it's your call. If you feel more comfortable having a human train you, by all means get training from your CDE. If you feel a video and this board (and other on-line resources) are enough and you can figure out it, go for it. Both options are good. Maybe using both you can gain even more knowledge, is the only suggestion I'd have.
I watched the video, read the Quick Start Guide and went lightly over the booklet. The only difficult part is inserting the needle for the first time. I looks very intimidating however, once you have done it a few times you know you will only feel anything for a few seconds. I started with the Dexcom 7 so the new one was not any different. I do wish the initial placement was automated or at least spring loaded. Pushing the plunger is always difficult for me even though I know it won't really hurt. You will find that the sinc-up time is always too long, but you learn to go about doing other things and forgetting about it until it beeps to let you know its time to do a Double blood test. The double testing is kind of a waste of time. Now I just take a reading adjust either up one point or down one point instead of taking two readings.
I did it myself. It's pretty straightforward -- you can do it from the instructions that come in the package too. But then I've always been an independent learner, and some people really do need a session with a trainer. Depends on how you feel after watching the video and looking at the instructions.
I had training for my System 7, my model 200 OmniPod and my G4. I did not have training for my OmniPod model 400. Putting on a sensor is a little more sensitive than putting on a pod because it is smaller and it is easier to fold the adhesive pad over on itself.
After getting my pump started yesterday, my CDE insisted I wait til my next visit in a week to hook up the Dexcom. She felt it would be too much at once to get the pump and Dexcom started on the same day. I see her point, but I think I was stressing over having an overnight low more than I would have been overwhelmed by 2 new devices. So, I will see her Thursday to get started, although I am anxious and would rather do it today!
I watched a YouTube video, carefully read the Dex instructions, and then just did it. Everything went as advertised. Like other’s have said, if you prefer a face to face session then get it. Otherwise it’s not that complicated.
Good luck with your CGM. I consider it one of the top technical tools for managing BGs. It’s not just a realtime report, there’s lots to learn from the retrospective data.
I just ordered Dexcom yesterday. Should arrive next Monday/Tuesday. My Dexcom rep said they have a skype training option with one of their clinical trainers at no additional charge. Sounds like a great option to me.
I am starting with the sensor first. After two weeks I’m going with OmniPod. I wanted two weeks of good CGM data before starting with the pump. I also like the idea of having the sensor working when I start on OmniPod in case of any lows.
I agree when I started I received both Dexcom Sensor and Omnipod insulin system at the same time I took same advice started and learned to use insulin pump first then when I was comfortable learned to use the Dexcom. I think both would be overwhelming for most people to learn at the same time. Each requires attention and can be distracting.
I just got my new G4 last night. Couldn't wait, popped in the disc into my laptop, watched and followed along. About 5 minutes after the final part of the flash movie I got a call from a CDE from Dexcom. They were ready to train, but I had to tell them I was already going and really didn't have much to ask. Of course I've been reading these thread here on the tudiabetes web site and learned a lot before hand.'
Anyway, just starting my journey with the G4. Thanks to all here for such great info and help.
I've been on an Omnipod for about an year. I think after now that I can say the Omnipod learning is long and interesting. Just started the G4, now thinking it's going to be interesting to. Not hard to start either of them, though training helps a lot. But as you learn what your body does, it becomes much more interesting... Have fun!