One way to decrease the likelihood of central line infections is to apply maximal barrier precautions in preparation for line insertion.

For the operator placing the central line and for those assisting in the procedure, maximal barrier precautions means strict compliance with handwashing, wearing a cap, mask, sterile gown and gloves.  The cap should cover all hair and the mask should cover the nose and mouth tightly.  These precautions are the same as for any other surgical procedure that carries a risk of infection.

For the patient, maximal barrier precautions means covering the patient from head to toe with a sterile drape with a small opening for the site of insertion.

Maximal barrier precautions clearly decrease the odds of developing catheter-related bloodstream infections. Two studies show that the odds of developing a central line infection were higher if maximal barrier precautions were not used.  For pulmonary artery catheters, the odds ratio of developing infection were more than two times greater for placement without maximal barrier precautions. [1]  A study of similar design found that this rate was six times higher for placement of central line catheters. [2]

References: 

1.  Mermel LA, McCormick RD, Springman SR, Maki DG. The pathogenesis and epidemiology of catheter-related infection with pulmonary artery Swan-Ganz catheters: A prospective study utilizing molecular subtyping. Am J Med. Sep 16 1991;91(3B):197S-205S.

2.  Raad, II, Hohn DC, Gilbreath BJ, et al. Prevention of central venous catheter-related infections by using maximal sterile barrier precautions during insertion. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. Apr 1994;15(4 Pt 1):231-238.