used to secure the central venous catheters, when compared with gauze and tape. However, the activity of gluconate– impregnated dressings (such as Biopatch) has been shown to prevent cannula-site-associated infections (Chambers et al, 2005). Biopatch is a protective disk impregnated with chlorhexidine gluconate and is used to provide sustained antimicrobial action over the site of an IV cannula. Research has shown that the Biopatch chlorhexidine gluconate dressing can reduce local infection, reduce catheter-related bloodstream infections, reduce the cost of treating cannula-associated infections, and can even prevent death (Crawford et al, 2004; Chambers et al, 2005). By delivering a continuous dose of chlorhexidine gluconate the Biopatch disk has proved clinically effective in helping to reduce IV-cannula-associated phlebitis and infections (Crnich and Maki, 2002). In addition, Biopatch can be used in conjunction with cannula securement devices such as the SorbaView® Shield. This is an IV cannula dressing that has an inbuilt stabilisation device that can withstand a 9-vector force tug, preventing both catheter movement and dislodgement (Flippo and Lee, 2011).