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 antiseptic patch or dressing (for example, a chlorhexidine gluconate- impregnated sponge or dressing or any other antiseptic) at the central venous catheter (CVC) insertion site in adults, adolescents and children. (Short- and long-term catheters) (All population)
Recommended in favor
Conditional
Certainty of evidence
Low
Notes and Remarks
- The GDG clearly noted that these products may not be easily available and affordable in LMICs and that other basic priority IPC measures should be in place before prioritizing this intervention.
- It is also worth mentioning that most of the studies were performed in ICU settings and HICs.
- It was noted that most of the evidence came from studies using chlorhexidine patches, but no difference was found when performing subgroup analyses for age, type of antiseptic and type of product used.
- The recommendation applies to adults, adolescents and children, but not neonates (due to the risk of chemical burns with chlorhexidine) (32).
- Antiseptic patches or dressings are only one element of infection prevention strategies and they should not be considered as a simple solution in facilities with higher CLABSI rates.
- It is also important to note that patches containing chlorhexidine are not licensed in neonates due to the risk of chemical burns (32).
- There is no preferred option in terms of type of product (patches versus dressing) and this should be assessed based on local preferences, costs and availability.