Which practice increases infection risk when establishing IV access and should be avoided?

• A. Shaving the area
• B. Clipping hair
• C. Using antiseptic
• D. Sterile technique

Answer: (A)

Shaving the area before establishing IV access increases infection risk because using a razor can create micro-abrasions and skin trauma. Those tiny cuts provide entry points for bacteria and can lead to local or systemic infection. To minimize risk, hair should be managed by clipping with scissors or electric clippers if necessary, which preserves the skin’s barrier. After prepping the skin, use an appropriate antiseptic and allow it to dry, and maintain sterile technique during the IV insertion. The other practices support infection control: clipping hair reduces trauma, antiseptic cleansing lowers microbial load, and sterile technique prevents contamination.