Background Central venous catheters (CVCs) facilitate venous access, allowing the intravenous administration of complex drug treatments, blood products and nutritional support, without the trauma associated with repeated venepuncture. However, CVCs are associated with a risk of infection. Some studies have indicated that the type of dressing used with them may affect the risk of infection. Gauze and tape, transparent polyurethane film dressings such as Tegadermnd Opsiteand highly vapour-permeable transparent polyurethane film dressings such as Opsite IV3000are the most common types of dressing used to secure CVCs. Currently, it is not clear which type of dressing is the most appropriate. Objectives To compare gauze and tape with transparent polyurethane CVC dressings in terms of catheter-related infection, catheter security, tolerance to dressing material and dressing condition in hospitalised adults and children.