How often should central line dressings be changed?

Central line dressings should typically be changed every seven days, or earlier if the dressing becomes soiled, damp, or loose. Therefore, the choice indicating that dressings should be changed every other day aligns with the guidelines that prioritize preventing infections, maintaining line integrity, and ensuring patient safety. Regular assessments should be made to ensure the dressing is intact, but a routine replacement every other day is not generally necessary or indicated unless specified by the facility's policies or the nature of the patient's condition.

Weekly changes or changes only as needed could potentially increase the risk of complications such as catheter-related infections if the dressing is not kept adequately clean or secure. The emphasis on systematic change reinforces infection control measures essential for patients with central lines.