Skin antiseptics used prior to intravascular catheter insertion.

The recent epic2 publication (Pratt et al, 2007) provides evidence-based guidelines for the prevention of healthcare-associated infections. One of the new recommendations related to the prevention of central venous catheter (CVC) associated infection states that 2% chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) in 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) should be used for cutaneous antisepsis prior to device insertion. This article reviews cutaneous antisepsis prior to intravascular catheter placement.