The nurse performs a sterile dressing change for a peripheral IV insertion site used for a continuous IV infusion. Which are potential nursing interventions for a sterile IV dressing change? (Select all that apply.)

Question

1. Discontinue the IV infusion.
2. Apply a sterile gauze dressing.
3. Apply povidone-iodine solution.
4. Secure IV tubing to the dressing.
5. Cover with an occlusive dressing.
6. Tape hub over skin at insertion site.

Answer 1

2, 3, 5
2. After properly cleansing the site, the nurse applies a dry sterile by folding in half a piece of gauze and placing it under the IV hub to prevent skin pressure from the hub.
3. The nurse applies antiseptic solution to the insertion site and allows it to dry before covering it with a sterile dressing because the antimicrobial action occurs during the drying.
5. The nurse covers the IV insertion site with an occlusive dressing to protect the site and to prevent infection.
1. Discontinuing the infusion is not indicated.
4. The nurse secures the IV tubing to the client and avoids taping it to the dressing because the IV needle potentially dislodges with applied tension to the tubing.
6. The nurse avoids taping the hub over the insertion site because the nurse wants to observe the insertion site directly during therapy.