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Medtronic Guardian™ 4 Continuous Glucose Monitor
The Guardian 4 CGM system is Medtronic's latest sensor technology, designed to work with the MiniMed 780G insulin pump system and featuring no-fingerstick calibration.
Technical Specifications
- Sensor Duration: 7 days
- Warmup Time: 2 hours
- MARD: 9.1% (Mean Absolute Relative Difference)
- Sensor Size: Length: 8.9mm
- Reading Frequency: Every 5 minutes (288 readings per day)
- Transmitter Battery: 12 months (non-rechargeable)
- Water Resistance: IPX8 (2.4 meters for up to 30 minutes)
- Age Indication: 7+ years old
- Calibration: Factory calibrated (no fingersticks required)
Alternative CGM Options
- Dexcom G7 - 10-day wear, integration with multiple pumps
- Freestyle Libre 3 - 14-day wear, no scanning required
Key Features
Hardware
- Smart transmitter technology
- One-press serter
- Improved sensor design
- Extended transmitter battery life
- Compact form factor
Software
- Real-time glucose monitoring
- Predictive alerts
- Customizable alarms
- Pattern detection
- SmartGuard™ technology integration
Integration Capabilities
Pump Integration
- MiniMed 780G system (coming soon)
- Automated insulin delivery
- SmartGuard™ technology
- Predictive low management
- Auto correction boluses
Data Management
- CareLink™ Personal software
- Mobile app connectivity
- Healthcare provider portal
- Report generation
- Data analysis tools
Accuracy and Performance
Strengths
- No calibration required
- Consistent accuracy
- Reliable alerts
- Quick warm-up
- Extended sensor life
Considerations
- Placement locations
- Interference factors
- Activity impact
- Temperature effects
- Pressure sensitivity
Common Issues and Solutions
Sensor Issues
- Proper insertion technique
- Site rotation
- Adhesive management
- Signal interference
- Environmental factors
Transmitter Problems
- Battery management
- Connection stability
- Water exposure
- Physical damage
- Bluetooth pairing
Alert Management
- Customization strategies
- Night mode settings
- Priority levels
- Volume control
- Vibration options
Tips for Success
Insertion
- Choose appropriate sites
- Clean area thoroughly
- Use proper technique
- Secure adhesive
- Verify connection
Maintenance
- Regular site rotation
- Monitor adhesive
- Check transmitter battery
- Keep backup supplies
- Document sensor changes
Insurance and Cost
- Transmitter Cost: ~$500
- Sensors (Monthly): ~$300-400
- Insurance Coverage: Varies by provider
- Prior Authorization: Usually required
- Medicare Coverage: Available
- FSA/HSA Eligible: Yes
Resources
Official
Support
- Technical Support: 1-800-646-4633
- 24/7 Help Line
- Online Resources
- Training Videos
Community
- Reddit: r/medtronic_diabetes
- Facebook Support Groups
- Local Training Sessions
- Online Forums
Related Techniques
- Exercise Management with CGM data
- Sick Day Rules for sensor management
Special Considerations
Exercise
- Impact on readings
- Adhesive durability
- Activity modifications
- Recovery patterns
- Hydration effects
Travel
- Temperature control
- Backup supplies
- Airport security
- Time zone changes
- Emergency contacts
Data Features
Reporting
- Glucose trends
- Pattern identification
- Time in range
- Alert history
- Sensor performance
Analysis Tools
- CareLink™ reports
- AGP reports
- Custom reports
- Data export
- Healthcare provider sharing
System Requirements
Mobile App
- iOS 14.0 or later
- Android 8.0 or later
- Bluetooth enabled
- Internet connection
- Compatible smartphone
CareLink™ Software
- Web-based platform
- Modern browser
- Internet connection
- User account
- Regular updates