Why getting your IV site wet is a serious risk
Water, even clean tap water, can contain bacteria that pose a risk for infection if introduced to the IV insertion site. The small opening where the catheter enters your skin is a direct pathway for microbes to enter your bloodstream, which can lead to a bloodstream infection. This is why healthcare providers and organizations like the CDC stress the importance of keeping the site dry. In addition to infection, moisture can cause the sterile dressing covering the site to loosen or lift, compromising the barrier that protects the wound. A wet dressing provides a warm, moist environment that is ideal for bacterial growth. If the dressing becomes damp, it must be changed immediately by a trained healthcare professional. Getting the site wet can also lead to irritation, discomfort, and swelling around the insertion area. Understanding these risks is the first step toward safely maintaining your personal hygiene while receiving IV therapy.
Essential steps for showering with a standard peripheral IV
Showering with a standard IV, which is typically placed in a vein in the arm or hand, is possible with the right preparation.
- Gather your supplies: You will need a reliable waterproof cover. Common options include purpose-built IV line protectors (sleeves with tight seals), large transparent waterproof dressings, or a DIY setup with cling wrap and waterproof medical tape.
- Cover the entire site: Carefully wrap the IV site, including the entire dressing and the connecting tubing, with your waterproof material. Ensure that the plastic or cover overlaps itself and is taped securely at the top and bottom to form a watertight seal.
- Use a controlled water flow: A handheld showerhead can be particularly useful, as it allows you to direct the water spray away from the IV site. Avoid standing directly under a strong spray that could compromise your waterproof barrier.
- Keep it quick: Minimize your time in the shower to reduce the chances of your protective cover loosening from steam or heat.
- Pat dry before removing cover: After your shower, gently pat the outside of the cover dry with a towel before carefully removing it. This prevents any stray water droplets from reaching the IV site.
- Inspect and replace if needed: Immediately inspect the IV site and dressing. If you see any signs of dampness, call your healthcare provider or home infusion nurse right away to have the dressing professionally replaced.
Special considerations for central IV lines
Central venous catheters (CVCs), such as PICC lines, Hickman ports, or implanted ports, require even more diligent care due to their connection to a central vein.
PICC Lines and Midlines:
- Never submerge: The PICC line should never be submerged in water, which means no baths, swimming, or hot tubs.
- Secure the line: Special waterproof sleeves or commercial covers are recommended for showering.
- Professional dressing changes: PICC line dressings are highly specialized. If the dressing becomes wet for any reason, it must be changed immediately by a trained professional.
Implanted Ports (e.g., Medi-Port):
- Post-implantation: In the days immediately following surgical placement, you will need to keep the incision site dry and may be instructed to avoid showering entirely.
- When not accessed: Once the site is healed and there is no needle inserted, you can typically shower or bathe without a special cover, as the port is completely under the skin.
- When accessed: If a Huber needle is in place for a continuous infusion, you must follow the same strict waterproofing procedures as with a PICC line.
Hickman Catheters (Tunneled CVCs):
- Caregiver assistance: Waterproofing a chest site can be challenging. Having a caregiver assist you with wrapping the area with cling wrap and tape can ensure a secure seal.
- Avoid direct spray: Be very careful to avoid direct spray from the showerhead on the catheter exit site.
How to protect a continuous infusion pump
If you have a medication pump for a continuous infusion, you must also take steps to protect the pump itself from water damage.
- Place in a sealed plastic bag: Put the pump inside a clean, sealable plastic bag.
- Hang securely: Hang the bagged pump on a shower hook, away from the direct spray of the water.
- Timing: For infusions that are not continuous, you may be able to time your shower to coincide with a bag change, allowing you to disconnect from the pump briefly.
What to do if your IV site gets wet
Even with the best precautions, accidents can happen. If you find your IV site or dressing has become damp or wet, follow these steps immediately:
- Do not panic: Remain calm and exit the shower immediately.
- Do not touch: Avoid touching or removing the wet dressing yourself, as this can introduce further contamination.
- Call your healthcare provider: Notify your home infusion nurse or healthcare provider right away. They will need to assess the site and change the dressing using sterile technique.
- Monitor for symptoms: Be vigilant for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, pain, or fever.
Comparison of IV line types and bathing instructions
| IV Line Type | Can You Shower? | Waterproofing Method | Precautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peripheral IV (PIV) | Yes, with precautions. | Cling wrap and tape, plastic bag, or commercial cover. | Avoid direct water spray; do not submerge. |
| PICC Line/Midline | Yes, with careful precautions. | Commercial PICC line shower cover, cling wrap and tape. | Never submerge; ensure line is completely sealed; have wet dressing changed professionally. |
| Implanted Port | Yes, when not accessed. No, when accessed. | For accessed ports: commercial port cover or cling wrap and tape. | Never submerge. Post-op: keep incision site completely dry. |
| Hickman Catheter | Yes, with assistance. | Cling wrap and tape, potentially with a caregiver's help. | Never submerge; avoid direct spray; handle with care to prevent dislodgement. |
How proper hygiene extends beyond the shower
Maintaining hygiene with an IV goes beyond just protecting the site during bathing. Good hand hygiene is paramount. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer before and after touching any part of your IV line, including the dressing. Additionally, make sure that anyone assisting you with IV care also practices proper hand hygiene. Keep the area around the IV insertion site clean, but do not apply any creams, lotions, or antibiotic ointments unless instructed by a healthcare provider. These products can interfere with the dressing's adhesion and promote the growth of resistant bacteria. Finally, be aware of your surroundings. Avoid gardening or other activities that could expose your IV site to soil or dirt.
Conclusion
While the prospect of showering with an IV line may seem daunting, it is a manageable process with the right knowledge and tools. By understanding the risks of infection and following the proper waterproofing techniques, you can safely maintain your personal hygiene. Always remember to communicate with your healthcare team and to promptly report any issues with your IV site. Prioritizing infection control is the key to a safe and successful treatment outcome. For more detailed information on specific guidelines, you can consult the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's recommendations on intravascular catheter care.
