Best practice skin antisepsis for insertion of peripheral catheters

Abstract

This article discusses the importance of effective skin antisepsis prior to the insertion of peripheral intravenous catheters (PIVCs) and how best clinical practice is promoted by application of an appropriate method of skin disinfection integrated effectively with a proprietary aseptic non touch technique, or other standard aseptic technique. Historically under-reported, incidence of infection and risk to patients from PIVCs is now increasingly being recognised, with new research and evidence raising concern and helping to drive new clinical guidance and improvement. The risks posed by PIVCs are particularly significant given increasing PIVC dwell times, due to cannula removal now being determined by new guidance for clinical indication, rather than predefined time frames. Clinical ‘best practice’ is considered in context of the evidence base, importantly including availability and access to appropriate skin antisepsis products. In the UK, and other countries, ChloraPrep is the only skin antisepsis applicator licensed as a drug to disinfect skin and help prevent infections before invasive medical procedures, such as injections, blood sampling, insertion of PIVCs and minor or major surgery.