Gauze and tape and transparent polyurethane dressings for central venous catheters (Review)

Do different types of dressing used to protect the central venous catheter site reduce the chance of developing a catheter related infection? A central venous catheter is a small tube inserted into a major vein to allow medications and other fluids to be 'dripped' in over a period of time without repeated injections. It is used in preference to a peripheral catheter (e.g. in the hand or arm) when access is required for long periods of time or the fluids that are administered may be damaging to the tissues. However, because central catheters are open to large veins they are associated with a risk of blood infection. Several different kinds of dressing are used for protecting the central venous catheter site, including transparent polyurethane dressings, gauze and tape. These dressings may vary in their durability, ease of use, ability to prevent infections and skin reactions. However, the review of trials found there is not enough evidence to determine whether any of the dressings for central venous catheters are better than any of the others.