Place the actions in order for changing a transparent central venous catheter dressing using the facility's sterile-glove method.
Ordered Response
Choose your responses, then check the answer.
Explanation
Prepare the client and supplies before exposing the site. Clean gloves protect the nurse during removal of the old dressing; stabilize the catheter and inspect for infection, migration, or damage. After glove removal and hand hygiene, use the facility's sterile-glove method to preserve a new aseptic field. Apply chlorhexidine-alcohol and allow complete drying before placing a sterile dressing. CDC permits clean or sterile gloves for dressing changes when aseptic technique is maintained; this scenario specifies the facility's sterile-glove method.
Correct sequence Prepare → remove and inspect → change gloves and re-establish asepsis → chlorhexidine and dry → sterile dressing and documentation.
Why this is correct Hand hygiene before and after catheter-site care, aseptic technique, appropriate chlorhexidine-alcohol antisepsis, full drying, and a sterile covering reduce contamination risk. A damp, loose, or visibly soiled dressing should be replaced.
NCLEX decision rule Do not place a new dressing over wet antiseptic, and do not sacrifice catheter stabilization while removing adhesive.
References
1CDC: Strategies for Prevention of Catheter-Related Infections
2CDC: Summary of Intravascular Catheter Recommendations
Central-line maintenanceThe dressing is loose and must be replaced now. The catheter remains necessary, the insertion site is dry, and chlorhexidine is not contraindicated. Preserve catheter position and follow the product instructions and facility policy.
Aseptic Non-Touch Technique — A method that protects key sterile parts and sites from direct or indirect contamination.
Chlorhexidine-Alcohol — A skin antiseptic combination recommended for central-line site preparation when not contraindicated.
CLABSI — A central line-associated bloodstream infection identified in a client with a qualifying central venous catheter.