What is the first step in administering a medication through a non-tunneled central venous catheter to ensure sterility?

• A. Cleansing the access port
• B. Connecting 10 mL normal saline to the access port
• C. Gently aspirating for blood
• D. Flushing saline using push-pause method

Answer: (A)

Maintaining sterility when accessing a non-tunneled central venous catheter starts with cleansing the access port. Cleaning the hub with an appropriate antiseptic before touching it removes surface microbes and creates a clean, sterile point of entry. It’s important to let the antiseptic dry completely to maximize its effect, then proceed with the medication administration or flushing.

Connecting saline or flushing are actions that should follow once the surface has been properly disinfected, and they do not establish sterility by themselves. Gently aspirating for blood doesn’t address sterility and can add handling steps that increase infection risk.

So, cleansing the access port first is the essential step to ensure a sterile access before administering any medication.