I have been a nurse in the OR for only a few months, and was an LPN at a clinic prior to beginning this job, however I am shocked at Anesthesia's practices in regards to cleaning of IV injection ports. As a nurse I was taught and practiced cleaning of IV injection ports prior to injection each and every time. I have witnessed EVERY anesthesiologist inject medication without ANY cleansing done...this include atrial lines, IV lines, and every other line I have every witnessed performed. I brought this practice up with my supervisor, who told me this was common practice and that when she had confronted an anesthsiologist he demanded she show proof that cleansing of the port was necessary. I have been all over the web in search of articles or evidenced based studies in regards to cleaning an injection port prior to administration of a medication, peripherial lines (not just central). Is there anyone who has links or supporting documentation I can bring to my adminsitration about this "substandard" practice of not cleaning IV ports? I am desperately trying to change this ongoing practice in my hospital. Thanks-