Which technique best reduces infection risk during a central line dressing change?

Which technique best reduces infection risk during a central line dressing change?

• A. Clean with soap and water
• B. Use clean technique
• C. Use sterile technique
• D. Reuse the dressing supplies

Answer: (C)

Sterile technique is essential when changing a central line dressing because the catheter provides a direct entry to the bloodstream, so preventing any microorganisms from entering is crucial to avoid infection. Maintaining a sterile field, donning sterile gloves, using sterile dressings, and performing antiseptic prep in a way that keeps all sterile surfaces uncontaminated helps minimize the risk of bloodstream infection. Cleaning with soap and water or using only clean technique does not guarantee sterility at the dressing site, and reusing dressing supplies is unsafe and increases infection risk. Follow the facility’s sterile procedures, including proper antisepsis (often chlorhexidine) and barrier precautions, to protect the patient.

Sterile technique is essential when changing a central line dressing because the catheter provides a direct entry to the bloodstream, so preventing any microorganisms from entering is crucial to avoid infection. Maintaining a sterile field, donning sterile gloves, using sterile dressings, and performing antiseptic prep in a way that keeps all sterile surfaces uncontaminated helps minimize the risk of bloodstream infection. Cleaning with soap and water or using only clean technique does not guarantee sterility at the dressing site, and reusing dressing supplies is unsafe and increases infection risk. Follow the facility’s sterile procedures, including proper antisepsis (often chlorhexidine) and barrier precautions, to protect the patient.