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This article is the second of a two-part series on GuardIVa®, a novel antimicrobial haemostatic IV dressing from HemCon Medical Technologies. In Part 1 ( Donnellan et al, 2011 ), the ability of GuardIVa Antimicrobial Haemostatic IV Dressing to significantly suppress skin flora re-growth was demonstrated in a clinical study conducted with healthy human volunteers. In addition, the antimicrobial and haemostatic efficacy of the dressing and its effects on wound healing were presented following a number of independently conducted in-vitro and in-vivo tests. In Part 2, the dressing was assessed for use as part of dressing change kits for patients with temporary short-term catheters in the intensive care unit (ICU) of a major US hospital. The use of GuardIVa Antimicrobial Haemostatic IV Dressing by a wound care nurse on a high level functioning quadriplegic patient presenting with redness, fluid and bleeding at the access site of a percutaneous medical device was also assessed. The positive outcomes from these experiences demonstrate that the GuardIVa dressings may be used as an effective component of catheter site regimens implemented by health professionals in a range of medical applications in diverse facilities.

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