Hibiclens Treatment to Prevent Central Line Infections

What is it?

Hibiclens is a special soap that kills germs. It is also called chlorhexidene gluconate, or CHG for short. Use it daily while you have a central line. This will help prevent infection.

Why am I at risk for infection?

Here are some common reasons. All of these may apply to you.

• You may be very sick.

• Your body may not be able to fight infections.

• You have a central line in place.

• Hospitals may have germs that are hard to kill.

How will this treatment help?

Hibiclens is better at preventing infections than plain soap. Studies show that daily hibiclens treatments help prevent infections in central lines. This could shorten your hospital stay and prevent infection.

What else should I know?

• Do not use on infants under 2 months of age.

• Do not use on open wounds.

• Do not use on the face or mucous membranes. This includes the mouth, eyes, and vaginal or inner labial area.

• Do not use for Foley care on women. Use regular soap followed by Castile wipes, unless you have a coconut allergy.

• Take a regular bath first to remove all dirt. Do not use regular soap after the hibiclens.
• Only apply unscented hospital lotion after treatment. Regular lotion or soap will cause hibiclens to not work as well.

What are the steps for using it?

Do this daily while you have a central line. If you are too weak to bathe, we will use hibiclens wipes to treat you. You should never skip the daily treatment.