Efficacy of Chlorhexidine-Impregnated Dressings Compared to Standard Dressings in Preventing CLABSI/CRBSI and Catheter Colonization in Pediatric Patients: A Literature Review

The central venous catheter (CVC) is essential in the management of pediatric patients, allowing the administration of medications, parenteral nutrition, and other treatments. However, its use carries a high risk of central line-associated bloodstream infections (CLABSI) and catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSI). Advanced chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings have been developed to reduce bacterial colonization, but their effectiveness in the pediatric population remains uncertain. The aim of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings compared to standard dressings in reducing CLABSI, CRBSI, and CVC colonization in pediatric patients. Randomized clinical trials published between 2005 and 2021 in PubMed, CINAHL, and Embase, in Italian or English, were selected. Methodological quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist. Relevant data were extracted and summarized in tables. Four studies, including a total of 733 pediatric patients (367 intervention, 366 control), were included. None reported a statistically significant reduction in CLABSI/CRBSI with the use of chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings. However, two studies showed a significant reduction in catheter colonization in the intervention group. Current evidence does not support a superior effect of chlorhexidine-impregnated dressings in preventing CLABSI/CRBSI in pediatric patients, although they may reduce catheter colonization. Randomized trials with larger samples and specific methodologies are needed to clarify the true clinical impact.