title: Chlorhexidine 2% and choice of transparent dressing increase skin reactions at central venous catheter insertion sites.
abstract: Infection at central venous catheter (CVC) sites remains a common problem, particularly with long-term use. This report discusses the influence of choice of transparent dressing type and chlorhexidine concentration on skin reactions at CVC insertion sites. A concentration of 2% chlorhexidine is associated with a higher rate of skin reactions than either 0.5% or 1% chlorhexidine. Higher chlorhexidine concentrations may not decrease the number of central line-associated bloodstream infections.
authors.affiliation: Immunology and Infectious Disease Unit, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia. Electronic address: Mark.Loewenthal@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au.
authors.forename: Mark
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Loewenthal
authors.affiliation: Immunology and Infectious Disease Unit, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
authors.forename: Pauline
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Dobson
authors.affiliation: Immunology and Infectious Disease Unit, John Hunter Hospital, New Lambton Heights, NSW, Australia; Faculty of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
authors.forename: Michael
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Boyle
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D001458:Bandages; D002405:Catheterization, Central Venous / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000379:methods*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D002710:Chlorhexidine / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D003872:Dermatitis / Q000453:epidemiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D055815:Young Adult
chemical_list: D000891:Anti-Infective Agents, Local; D002710:Chlorhexidine
keywords: Central venous catheter; catheter dressing; chlorhexidine; infection; skin reaction; transparent film dressing