Nosocomial bacteremia would Cause prolonged hospitalization and increased medical cost. In this study, we prospectively performed 10% povi-done-iodine sterilization with 30 seconds air-dry before intravenous catheterization or changing dressing on the injection site to see the effects on prevention of primary bacteremia. From February 1, 2001 to August 31, 2001, totally 163 patients at an intensive care unit (ICU) in a tertiary medical center were enrolled. The case group of patients received strict 10% povidone-iodine sterilization with 30 seconds air-dry. Primary bacteremia developed in 4 patients (4.3‰) in the control group and one (l.2‰) in the case group. We suggest using 10% povidone-iodine sterilization with 30-second air-dry and decreasing the use of intravascular catheters to prevent the occurrence of primary bacteremia.