How CHG Helps Prevent Catheter-Related Infections

How Proper Skin Antisepsis Supports Safer Catheter Insertion

Central venous catheters (CVCs) are widely used in hospitals for delivering medications, fluids, blood products, and long-term therapies. While these devices are essential in modern healthcare, they also increase the risk of catheter-related infections, particularly Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs).

Because microorganisms on the skin can enter the bloodstream during catheter insertion, infection prevention begins before the catheter is placed. Proper skin antisepsis is a key step in evidence-based catheter insertion protocols and works alongside hand hygiene, maximal sterile barriers, and catheter maintenance to reduce infection risks.

Why Is CHG Commonly Used?

Chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) is one of the most widely used antiseptics for catheter insertion because it combines rapid antimicrobial action with lasting protection.

When formulated with 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA), alcohol quickly reduces microorganisms on the skin, while CHG binds to the outer skin layer and continues suppressing bacterial growth after the solution has dried. This residual antimicrobial activity makes CHG an important component of many skin preparation protocols.

Healthcare professionals should always follow clinical guidelines, hospital policies, and the manufacturer’s Instructions for Use (IFU) when selecting and applying antiseptic products.

Proper Technique Matters

The effectiveness of skin antisepsis depends not only on the antiseptic itself but also on how it is applied.

Best practice includes:

• Applying enough solution to completely cover the insertion site.
• Using a sterile applicator.
• Allowing the antiseptic to dry naturally before catheter insertion.
• Maintaining aseptic technique throughout the procedure.

Following standardized procedures helps improve consistency and supports safer clinical practice.

Why CHG Applicators Make a Difference

Modern healthcare increasingly focuses on reducing unnecessary variation in clinical workflows.

Single-use sterile CHG applicators help clinicians apply antiseptic evenly, improve workflow efficiency, and support standardized skin preparation before catheter insertion.

A dedicated applicator also minimizes unnecessary handling of antiseptic solution, helping maintain sterile technique throughout the preparation process.

Supporting Clinical Practice with HCY CHG Applicators

At HCY, CHG applicators are designed to support efficient and standardized skin antisepsis in hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Available in 26 mL, 30 mL, 35 mL, and 40 mL, HCY CHG Applicators are manufactured under sterile conditions and designed for consistent solution delivery, ergonomic handling, and reliable packaging. HCY also provides flexible OEM and private-label solutions for global medical distributors and healthcare brands.

By combining quality manufacturing with an understanding of clinical workflows, HCY aims to support healthcare professionals in performing safe, consistent skin preparation before catheter insertion and other invasive procedures.

Conclusion

Preventing catheter-related infections requires multiple evidence-based practices working together. Proper skin antisepsis, standardized application techniques, and reliable medical devices all contribute to safer patient care.

As hospitals continue strengthening infection prevention programs, CHG skin preparation remains an important part of supporting successful catheter insertion. Choosing a well-designed CHG applicator helps healthcare professionals perform this critical step with greater consistency and confidence.