Skin preparation
Background Information
To prepare the skin, clean the site of the catheter insertion and then apply alcoholic chlorhexidine. If there is excessive hair at the site, remove it with clippers (do not shave) so the dressing can adhere well.4
Generally, the recommended solution for skin preparation is 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) in ≥70% ethyl or isopropyl alcohol (alcoholic chlorhexidine).1
The solution should be applied meticulously by the clinician to an area of skin approximately 10cm x 10cm in a circular motion beginning in the centre of the proposed site and moving outward, for at least 30 seconds.
If chlorhexidine is contraindicated (e.g. allergy), use a solution containing povidone-iodine 10% in 70% ethyl
alcohol- note povidone-iodine should remain on the skin for at least 2 minutes and until dry.
If any of the above solutions is contraindicated (e.g. allergy), use sterile 0.9% sodium chloride.4
The solution should be left to air dry (as per manufacturer’s instructions) and not touched or palpated again prior to catheter insertion.
