This handout explains bathing with chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) for patients at University of Washington Medical Center who must use the medicine to protect against infection.

Provide chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG) baths to patients (>48 weeks corrected gestational age) with a central venous catheter (CVC) or indwelling transurethral catheter (Foley®) in acute …

Bathing is the cleaning of the body for the purposes of relaxation, cleanliness, and healing. Prevents: Yeast or bacterial infections Urinary tract infections (UTI) Device-associated …

Good hygiene, especially regular hand washing and regular bathing, is the best way to prevent an IV line infec on. Soap and water, as well as alcohol-based hand sani zers, kill bacteria.

CHG cloths should be used for all bathing purposes, including full-body bathing, cleaning after soiling, or any other reasons for additional cleaning such as freshening up.

Remove all soap residue. Dry the skin after it has been rinsed. Replace the water if it cools during the course of the bath. Apply lotion to the skin after bathing to help restore moisture to the body.

DO keep the dressing over the IV line DRY at all times. DO cover your IV line dressing prior to bathing as the dressing itself is NOT waterproof. o If you have a detachable shower head, try …