Well, this one seems like old news. Regardless, it was nice to see this review published by the Cochrane Database. The citation is found here.For the remaining laggards and naysayers, the data resoundingly supports the use of chlorhexidine impregnated dressings over central lines to prevent central line associated bloodstream infections.
Sadly, even with this data, medication impregnated dressings for central lines are not always the standard of care, particularly after patients are discharged on home IV therapy or to long term care / transitional care centers. I routinely see non-impregnated dressings on central lines at the time of outpatient follow up.
The message is clear. Request medication impregnated dressings for central lines and be vigilant and vocal for their continued use in patients with central venous catheters, particularly after hospital discharge.
