What is one property of a transparent semipermeable membrane (TSM)?

A transparent semipermeable membrane (TSM) is specifically designed to facilitate the visibility of the insertion site while still allowing for selective permeability. This critical property enables healthcare providers to monitor the site for signs of infiltration or infection without needing to remove the dressing. By allowing direct site visualization, the TSM supports timely interventions if changes in the insertion site are noted, which is essential in managing vascular access effectively.

In the context of the other options, complete site occlusion is not a characteristic of a TSM, as it is meant to allow for monitoring. While the risk of infection can vary based on numerous factors, a TSM does not inherently enhance this risk; in fact, its design allows for better observation to potentially reduce it. Regarding dressing changes, while there are guidelines on how often dressings should be changed, a TSM does not have a specific requirement of not changing more than every 14 days; the frequency of changes can vary based on clinical judgment and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Thus, the ability to visualize the site directly is a fundamental and beneficial property of TSMs.