A comparison of two transparent film-type dressings in central venous therapy

A prospective randomized clinical trial has been conducted to compare the clinical performance, with prolonged use, of two film-type transparent dressings used over subclavian and jugular single-lumen venous catheters. 'OpSite', a traditional dressing with a moderate moisture vapour permeability was compared with a new dressing of high moisture vapour permeability, 'OpSite IV3000'. Information was collected daily to assess the nature and incidence of complications, dressing durability and the ease of application and removal. One hundred and one patients provided two well-matched populations receiving a total of 153 dressings for a total of 780 catheter-days. No differences between the two dressings were noted with respect to the incidence of complications, such as moisture accumulation or lifting, and dressing durability. The low incidence of catheter-related sepsis ('OpSite' group three episodes and 'OpSite IV3000' group one episode) suggests that transparent dressings do not increase this risk. This clinical study demonstrated the new 'OpSite IV3000' to be easier to handle, leading to better application, improved catheter fixation and easy removal.