Freestyle Libre 3 Plus Sensor

Preparing Your Skin

Effective skin preparation is crucial for ensuring the sensor adheres properly and functions reliably. Always select a flat, clean area on the back of your upper arm.

1. Wash: Clean the selected area using plain, non-moisturising, fragrance-free soap and water. It is important to avoid soaps with lotions or heavy fragrances, as these can leave an oily residue on the skin that may interfere with sensor adhesion
2. Dry: Pat the area dry thoroughly with a clean towel. Do not rub vigorously
3. Clean with Alcohol: Wipe the dry skin site with an alcohol wipe
4. Air Dry Completely: Allow the skin to air dry completely before applying the sensor. Do not blow on the area to speed drying, as this can introduce contaminants. Ensure the skin is fully dry, particularly if applying after a shower or swimming
5. Hair: If the chosen application site has a significant amount of body hair, consider carefully shaving the area to improve sensor adhesion and comfort

Applying the Sensor

1. Unscrew Cap: Carefully unscrew the cap from the sensor applicator and set it aside. It is important not to attempt to put the cap back on, as this could potentially damage the sensor needle or the applicator mechanism
2. Position Applicator: Place the sensor applicator over the prepared (washed, dried, and alcohol-wiped) site on the back of your upper arm
3. Apply Firm Pressure: Push down firmly on the sensor applicator. You should hear a distinct "click" and/or feel it come to a stop, which indicates the sensor has been applied to your body
4. Remove Applicator: Gently and slowly pull the sensor applicator straight back and away from your arm
5. Secure Sensor: Check that the sensor is securely attached to your skin. You can gently press your finger around the edges of the adhesive pad to ensure it is smoothly and firmly adhered. The used applicator should be discarded according to local regulations for medical waste, if applicable

Starting Your Sensor (Activation and Warm-up)

Activation links the sensor to your chosen reading device. The initial 60-minute warm-up period is necessary for the sensor to equilibrate with the body's interstitial fluid.

Critical Note for AID System Users: If you are using the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor as part of an Automated Insulin Delivery (AID) system (i.e., with a compatible insulin pump), DO NOT activate your sensor using the FreeStyle Libre 3 app or the FreeStyle Libre 3 reader. Instead, you MUST refer to and follow the specific activation instructions provided by your insulin pump manufacturer on their website or in their device manual. Failure to do so may result in the AID system not functioning correctly.

For standalone use with the FreeStyle Libre 3 app or reader:

1. Using the FreeStyle Libre 3 App:
   • Open the FreeStyle Libre 3 app on your compatible smartphone.
   • Tap the "Start New Sensor" button or option on the app screen.
   • To scan and activate the sensor, touch the sensor with the top front or top back of your smartphone (the optimal scanning area can vary between phone models, so you may need to move your smartphone around slightly if the first attempt is unsuccessful).
   • You should receive a tone and/or feel a vibration from your phone when the scan is successful and the sensor activation process has begun
2. Using the FreeStyle Libre 3 Reader:
   • Press the Home Button to turn on the reader.
   • Touch the "Start New Sensor" option on the reader's screen.
   • Hold the reader within approximately 1.5 inches (4 cm) of the newly applied sensor to scan and activate it
3. Warm-up Period: Once activated, the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor requires a 60-minute warm-up period before it can begin displaying glucose readings. If notifications are enabled on your app or reader, you will typically receive an alert when the sensor is ready and glucose readings are available.

Important Device Exclusivity: Remember, the device (FreeStyle Libre 3 app or FreeStyle Libre 3 reader) that you use to start or activate a sensor is the only device that can receive glucose readings and alarms from that particular sensor for its entire wear period. You cannot switch between the app and the reader with an already active sensor

During Wear: Getting the Most from Your Sensor

1. Accessing Readings: Check your glucose levels by simply glancing at the real-time data on your FreeStyle Libre 3 app or by scanning the sensor with your FreeStyle Libre 3 reader.
2. Sensor Protection: Be mindful of the sensor during daily activities. Try to avoid bumping it against door frames or furniture. Wear loose-fitting clothing over the sensor area if possible, and be cautious when dressing or undressing to prevent snagging it
3. Water Resistance: The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor is water-resistant, meaning it can be worn while showering, swimming, or exercising. After exposure to water, gently pat the area around the sensor dry with a towel; do not rub vigorously over the sensor

Removing and Replacing Your Sensor

The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor is designed for continuous wear for up to 15 days

1. Removal: When it's time to remove the sensor (either at the end of its 15-day life or if it becomes dislodged), gently pull up one edge of the adhesive pad that keeps the sensor attached to your skin. Then, slowly and carefully peel the entire sensor off your skin in a single, smooth motion
2. Site Rotation: When applying a new sensor, it is very important to choose a different spot on the back of your upper arm than the one used for the previous sensor. Rotating application sites helps to avoid skin irritation or discomfort that can occur from repeated application in the same location
3. Adhesive Residue: If any adhesive residue remains on the skin, it can typically be removed with baby oil or a medical-grade adhesive remover. Several such products are available commercially

Skin Reactions and Irritation

The most frequently reported side effects involve the skin at the sensor application site.

• Adhesive Sensitivity: Some individuals may be sensitive or develop sensitivity to the medical-grade adhesive that keeps the sensor attached to the skin for its 15-day wear period
• Common Reactions: Potential skin reactions can include:
  • Redness
  • Itching
  • Rash or welts
  • Blistering
  • Bruising (more likely if small blood vessels are disturbed during insertion)
  • Minor bleeding at the insertion site
  • Scab formation upon removal
• Action for Significant Irritation: If you notice significant skin irritation, such as severe redness, swelling, pain, or blistering around or under your sensor, you should remove the sensor immediately and discontinue use of the FreeStyle Libre system. It is important to contact your healthcare professional to discuss the reaction before attempting to use the system again. They can help determine the cause and advise on future use or alternative solutions
• Minimising Irritation: To help reduce the likelihood of skin irritation:
  • Ensure the skin site is thoroughly clean (with plain soap and water, then an alcohol wipe) and completely dry before applying the sensor. Avoid lotions, oils, or perfumes on the application area.
  • Crucially, rotate your sensor application sites with each new sensor. Avoid applying a new sensor to the exact same spot used previously. Using different locations on the back of both upper arms allows the skin to recover.

Q: What is the difference between the FreeStyle Libre 3 and the FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor?

A: The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus sensor offers three main advantages over the standard FreeStyle Libre 3:

1. 1. Extended Wear Time: Up to 15 days for the 3 Plus, compared to 14 days for the Libre 3.
   2. Pump Compatibility: The 3 Plus is designed for compatibility with select automated insulin pumps and AID systems, a feature not present in the standard Libre 3 sensor.
   3. Age Indication: The FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus is indicated for users aged 2 years and older, whereas the FreeStyle Libre 3 system is indicated for ages 4 years and older.

FreeStyle Libre 3 vs. FreeStyle Libre 3 Plus Comparison