Water resistant and sterile central venous catheter dressings

Cath Dry is an innovative dressing for dialysis patients, as well as others who have a central venous catheter or other line that is at risk of infection.

The dressing allows for safe showering (and other water-based activities) while minimising the potential for infection by keeping the catheter in a sterile environment and free of contaminants.

Cath Dry is a dressing suitable for use with the following central venous catheters:

• Haemodialysis
• Peritoneal
• PICC.

Cath Dry dressings are also suitable for:

• Hickman lines
• Chemotherapy lines.

Cath Dry dressings can also be used for elderly patients to protect and keep the central line lumens clean, dry and free from debris.

How Cath Dry dressings work

Cath Dry is a water resistant dressing that is applied directly to the skin. When applied correctly the line ends are inserted within the plastic sheath, and the dressing applied to the skin to create a water-resistant seal.

The dressing is gentle and breathable (allows moisture to escape and oxygen to enter), and flexes and moves with body for greater patient comfort. It also acts as a barrier to external contaminants.

Showering, bathing or swimming:

The dressing is water resistant and keeps the area around the catheter dry. The dressing is an effective water barrier to permit showering, bathing or swimming* when used properly. Always dry the exterior of the dressing carefully after contact with water. * Patients have used the dressing for active watersports (including under wetsuits) and hydrotherapy without issues.

We advise showering and water-based activity should be restricted to 20 minutes per dressing per session. However patient feedback tells us this can be considerably longer if applied correctly and monitored. Water can potentially enter the dressing if directions are not followed.

Moisture detection ring:

Each dressing features a moisture detection ring. If the ring starts to turn red, then it indicates moisture is present. The Cath Dry dressing should be removed, the skin dried and a new Cath Dry dressing applied. Note: Excessive sweating (sterile) may lead to a colour change.

Close monitoring of the integrity of the Cath Dry is mandatory during water exposure among children.

Application instructions

Please read these instructions carefully. If the directions are not followed this may result in dressing failure and higher risk of catheter infection. Best outcomes are achieved if dressings are changed by a nurse or technician.

The Cath Dry dressings are not intended for application over infected (or blocked) lines or exit sites. If there are signs of infection such as fever, pain, redness, swelling, itching, rash or burning, consult a healthcare provider before use.

Preparation

The Cath Dry dressing must be applied onto clean, dry, bare skin. It must not be applied directly onto stitches, broken or irritated skin. Ensure skin products and lotions have been completely removed and the area is completely dry. Do not apply over another dressing. If necessary, shave body hair prior to application for optimal adhesion.

Wash hands thoroughly. Clean the line and ends thoroughly with alcohol or a Chlorhexidine pad from exit site to the line tip. Allow to air dry.

Application

1. Insert the catheter lines into the sheath [marked #C] of the Cath Dry. Carefully remove the inner semi-circular liners [marked #A] from the base ring adhesive layer of the dressing using the blue tab. Try not to touch the adhesive surface with fingers.  

2. Carefully remove the two outer semi-circular liners [marked #B] by gently bending the base ring to separate them from the adhesive layer. Try not to touch the adhesive surface with fingers.

3. Once the line and skin are dry, gently apply pressure to the sheath [marked #C] to remove excess air from around the lines.

4. Firmly press the exposed adhesive base onto the skin, keeping the line exit site centrally within the ring. 

5. Lift the clear plastic carrier from the base ring where indicated by two sets of orange arrows, and remove. This process ensures the dressing will remain secure on the skin to avoid water ingress. 

Still unsure? Watch our demo video.

Dressing strips

The dressing strip is optional, and designed to secure the Cath Dry dressing sheath in place to make daily activity more comfortable. It can be positioned where most comfortable or practical for the patient.

Remove the backing tape and apply the adhesive sections of the dressing strip to the skin, keeping the sheath within the centre of the strip, to secure the dressing sheath. Once applied, peel away the carrier strip to gain optimum adhesion. Skin should be dry and oil free. It is possible to carefully replace the dressing tape should it come away during daily use, or replace with an alternative adhesive tape.

Removal

The Cath Dry dressing will remain securely on the skin if applied correctly, and will resist pulling and sliding. However, when removal is required it is simple to peel off.

Gently prise the ring base layer from the skin at one side using the blue tab. Continue to lift until the ring base peels fully from the skin. Dispose of the dressing. Clean the skin as per the application instructions before applying a new dressing.

Do not reuse.

Warnings

It is important to immediately change the dressing if:

• it begins to leak
• it is no longer sticking to skin
• the moisture indicating ring turns red
• it is torn or punctured.