Advanced Dressings for CVC Infection Prevention in PICU

Use of Advanced Fixation Dressings in Reducing Central Venous Catheter-related Bloodstream Infections in a Paediatric Intensive Care Unit

Randomised, single-blind clinical trial comparing chlorhexidine gluconate-impregnated transparent dressings versus conventional transparent dressings in the prevention of central venous catheter-related bloodstream infections (CVC-BSI) in paediatric patients admitted to a tertiary hospital PICU. Outcomes include incidence of BRCVC, catheter colonisation, dressing-related skin complications, and number of dressing changes.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Admission to paediatric intensive care unit (PICU)
• Central venous catheter placement (central or peripherally inserted)
• Informed consent obtained from parent/legal guardian

Exclusion Criteria:

• Known immunological disorders
• Neutropenia (<500/mm³)
• Pre-existing colonisation or infection with multidrug-resistant organisms