ABSTRACT
Aseptic Non Touch Technique should be used when accessing midline and Peripherally Inserted Central Catheter (PICC) line access devices. Following insertion of a midline or a PICC line, it is important that the line be managed correctly to avoid complications. The most common problems encountered post-insertion are infection, catheter occlusion and accidental removal. These three complications are generally avoidable if proper care and maintenance are instituted. The dressings used should be transparent to allow visual inspection of the exit site. They should also be self-adhesive so they can provide added stability. The dressing should be semi-permeable to protect the site from bacteria and liquid whilst allowing the skin to breathe. Dressings should be changed at least every week or sooner if no longer intact or if moisture is collecting underneath. If the patient has profuse sweating or the insertion site is bleeding/oozing, then a sterile gauze dressing can be used.
