FreeStyle Navigator from Abbott
The FreeStyle Navigator from Abbott is a Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) device featuring an on-body sensor and transmitter and an off-body receiver.
The sensor is inserted using an insertion device (so it is not manual). There is a broad adhesive pad, which makes for a safe, solid base onto which the wireless transmitter attaches.
The sensor and transmitter are usually placed on the stomach or on the back of the upper arm.
Insertion device
The insertion device allows for the sensor to be put in places that other CGM inserters may not allow for due to the limitations of handling the insertion device.
This is because some are larger, some require a certain angle for insertion, either of which can lead to some areas being less accessible than others for placement of the sensor and transmitter.
The receiver for the FreeStyle Navigator is not an insulin pump (as is often the case) but is a stand-alone unit that also acts as a blood test machine (contrary to popular belief, while using a CGM you will also need to blood test).
The receiver needs to be within 3m of the transmitter.
The receivers screen shows a graph showing your ongoing readings, one every minute.
Up to the minute data
You can see the graph, the current reading in number form (e.g. 8.5mmols/l) and it has an easy to understand arrow that indicates if your glucose levels are trending up or down.
Transmitter data
- Size: 5.2 x 3.1 x 1.1 cm
- Weight: 13 g (with batteries)
- Batteries: x1 silver oxide 357 HC battery (lasts approx. 30 days).
- Waterproof: Suitable for water use up to 45 minutes in a depth of 1 metre
Receiver data
- Size: 6.3 x 8.2 x 2.2 cm
- Weight: 99 g (with 2 AAA batteries)
- Batteries: x2 AAA batteries, last up to 60 days
- Test strips: FreeStyle Lite
