Collaborative Intravenous Nursing Service (CINS) Guidelines

Care and Maintenance of a Skin Tunnelled Catheter (STC1)6EXIT DRESSING CHANGE (Weekly)Equipment requiredActionRationaleDressing Pack containing sterile towel and GlovesSurgical tapeChlorhexidine Gluconate 2% in 70% Isopropyl alcohol solution and sterile gauze or2% Chlorhexidine in 70% Isopropyl alcohol impregnated applicatorSemi- Permeable transparent IV dressingAlcohol hand rub or gelPlastic apronCare of Exit siteDressing changes should be performed on a weekly basis or when dressing is dirty orloose. Before the procedure begins make sure that your hands are washed and driedthoroughly and that they continue to be decontaminated during the procedure. A plasticapron should be worn.Maintain aseptic technique at all times.Observe exit site for signs of discolouration of skin or signs of infection e.g. exudatefrom exit site. If you suspect infection please contact the hospital team who placed thecatheter for advice. Follow trouble -shooting guide.Explain the procedure to the patient.Ensure that valid consent is gained.Ensure working area is clean.Ensure all equipment is gathered before commencing the procedure and all packagingis intact and in date.To prevent infection.Exit site dressings are important inpreventing trauma and the extrinsiccontamination of the site of entry (Jones2004).To prevent/reduce patient anxiety.Maintain safety.To prevent infection and cathetercontamination.The CINs group hereby assert their moral rights tothe works herein in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1988.Policy review date 01/10/10