“Dear Deanna: I haven’t had a lot of experience with removing transparent dressings on IV sites. Everytime that I do, I pull out the IV catheter. What can I do?”

First of all, relax. This is a technique that is only accomplished with practice. Here are a few tips that will  help you remove that bio-occlusive (transparent) dressing without losing that IV catheter. It will also minimize any discomfort to the patient.

1. Never pull the transparent dressing away from you.

2. Loosen a corner closest to you.

3. Gently start pulling the corner of the transparent dressing toward you. (If you are unable to get the edge pulled up, use an alcohol prep)

4. Guard your catheter by securing with your less dominant hand.

Voila … you have removed the dressing, maintained your IV, and caused minimal discomfort for your patient.

Got a question for Deanna? Leave a comment and she’ll get back to you.