An Audit of the Skin Condition and Epidural Dressings

Abstract

The maintenance of the security and sterility of epidural catheter insertion site dressings is paramount. Sue Daykin and Felicia Cox describe a prospective audit of the adhesive tapes used to provide a window to view the epidural catheter insertion site. Insertion sites were viewed on postoperative day one and the day after catheter removal by the acute pain nurse. A description and drawing of the site were documented. The most important implication of this audit is that if adhesive tape is used to provide a window for epidural analgesia, there is a possibility of skin irritation however long the epidural dressing remains in place.