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 an alcohol based formulation over an aqueous-based antiseptic formulation for skin disinfection before 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
Low
Notes and Remarks
- Alcohol-based antiseptics should be the preferred choice for skin disinfection before CVC insertion.
- It was acknowledged that alcohol-based formulations can cause skin irritation, dryness and a risk of pain in case of laceration and these potential side-effects should be taken into consideration when using these products. Some of these side-effects may be caused by either the alcohol or the antiseptic component.
- Alcohol-based antiseptics can cause skin lesions in preterm infants without intact skin.
- Alcohol-based formulations are widely available, with no need to use special applicators or devices or wipes.
- The GDG did not indicate a specific standardized technique for the application of the skin disinfectant before CVC insertion, but noted that a sufficient volume of product is needed.
- As per previous recommendation, all skin disinfectants should be allowed to dry for at least 30 seconds for a maximal effect.
- The development of a standard list of suitable skin disinfection products (including alcoholchlorhexidine and alternative options) for CVC insertion may be of benefit, in particular in case of procurement problems and unavailability of products.