Could a tiny sensor spare newborns dozens of needle sticks?
NCT ID NCT04386005
First seen Jul 29, 2026 · Last updated Jul 30, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
Newborns at risk for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) currently undergo frequent heel-stick blood tests, which can be painful. This study tests whether a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) placed on the thigh can safely and accurately track glucose levels with far fewer needle sticks. The Dexcom G7 sensor, already approved for older children and adults, will be used in about 50 at-risk newborns to see if it is feasible, precise, and acceptable to parents and nurses.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Dexcom G7 continuous glucose monitor
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this could lead to a less painful way to monitor blood sugar in newborns at risk for hypoglycemia, reducing needle sticks and catching more low-glucose episodes.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small feasibility study, not yet testing clinical outcomes. The device is not FDA-approved for newborns, and its accuracy in this population is unproven. Skin irritation or inaccurate readings remain possible.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
Penn State Health Milton S Hershey Medical Center
Hershey, Pennsylvania, 17033, United States
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