Which actions during a peripheral IV dressing change are considered correct?

The action of stabilizing the catheter while changing the dressing is critical for maintaining the integrity and position of the IV line. When a dressing change occurs, the catheter can be susceptible to movement or displacement, which can lead to complications such as infiltration or phlebitis. By stabilizing the catheter, practitioners ensure that the IV line remains securely in place, thereby minimizing the risk of complications and maintaining the effectiveness of the therapy.

In the context of the other options, documenting symptoms after a dressing change is useful but not a fundamental action taken during the dressing change itself. Using sterile gloves to remove the old dressing is standard practice to prevent infection; however, simply having sterile gloves does not encompass the comprehensive strategies required during the procedure. Consequently, while all actions mentioned are best practices in IV therapy, stabilizing the catheter specifically addresses a critical point during the dressing change process.