Bibliographic information
GuidelineGuidelines for the prevention of bloodstream infections and other infections associated with the use of intravascular catheters: part 2: central venous catheters
Year of Publication2026
Issuing InstitutionWorld Health Organization
Recommendation
New
WHO suggests using either a transparent semi-permeable dressing or gauze dressing after central venous catheter (CVC) insertion in adults, adolescents, children and neonates. (Short- and long-term catheters) (All population)
Recommended in favor
Conditional
Certainty of evidence
Very low
Notes and Remarks
- Transparent semi-permeable dressings offer several advantages, including enhanced visibility of the insertion site, which may allow earlier detection of local inflammation or infection. They also facilitate easier inspection, improve patient comfort, and reduce nursing workload due to their durability and reduced need for frequent changes.
- On the other hand, gauze dressings may offer the advantage of absorbing blood oozing and moisture, which transparent dressings do not. In such cases, a gauze dressing may be preferable.
- Ensuring the daily inspection of the CVC insertion site for signs of potential infection is critical. However, it is important to recognize that daily visual inspection might not be feasible if a gauze dressing is not being changed. In such situations, proper adherence to dressing maintenance protocols is essential for effective infection monitoring.
- From an implementation perspective, this should be supported by a clear SOP defining when each dressing type is used and by routine audit processes to ensure consistent practice.