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
If a formal schedule of central venous catheter (CVC) dressing changes is to be used, WHO suggests using dressing change intervals of 3 days or more 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
- This recommendation addresses CVC dressings that are not moistened or already disrupted.
- The GDG noted that all the evidence related to this recommendation pertained to transparent semi-permeable dressings.
- Because dressing disruption has been determined to be a major factor in the development of CLABSI (144), it is important to ensure the integrity and adherence of the dressing and to reduce dressing disruption in post-insertion care bundles.
- Despite this current recommendation, GDG members agreed that dressings should be changed regardless of the schedule if there is a clinical indication. This could also include clinical situations when there is serous or bloody exudate or when the edges of the dressing are lifting, requiring a replacement prior to the scheduled date.