What type of dressing is applied to a central line insertion site?

A sterile occlusive dressing is applied to a central line insertion site to maintain a clean and sterile environment, minimizing the risk of infection. This type of dressing serves several key purposes: it prevents contaminants from entering the insertion site, absorbs any drainage if necessary, and provides a barrier to moisture, which can compromise the integrity of the insertion site.

Using a sterile occlusive dressing ensures that the central line is protected and can maintain patency while also allowing for the visibility of the site for monitoring purposes. It is essential for healthcare providers to correctly apply this type of dressing in order to ensure patient safety and the effectiveness of the line.

Alternative dressings, such as non-sterile gauze or cotton bandages, do not provide the same level of protection against infection. They may lack the necessary sterility and occlusiveness required for central lines, where preventing infection is critical for patient outcomes. An adhesive strip may provide some coverage, but it does not offer the comprehensive protection that a sterile occlusive dressing does.