When changing the dressing on a peripheral IV site, what technique should the nurse use?

Using one finger to keep pressure over the IV catheter while replacing the dressing is crucial because it helps maintain the catheter's position and reduces the risk of accidental dislodgement. This technique ensures that the IV remains secure during the dressing change process, which is important to prevent complications such as infiltration or phlebitis. By keeping a finger over the catheter, the nurse can also provide stabilization, allowing for a smooth and efficient dressing change.

This approach is also aligned with the principles of aseptic technique, as it minimizes the risk of introducing pathogens and helps maintain a sterile environment around the catheter site. Keeping pressure helps avoid unnecessary trauma to the vein and maintains the integrity of the IV access.

In contrast, removing the old dressing completely before placing the new one might expose the site longer than necessary to airborne contaminants and could lead to infection. Cleaning the site only after removing the old dressing may not adequately prepare the area and increases the risk of infection if contaminants are introduced during the dressing change. Finally, using sterile gloves post-dressing change does not align with proper standards, as sterile gloves should be used before touching the site to maintain asepsis during the entire procedure.