Innovative System for Prevention of Skin Tears in Institutionalized Adults
Novel Dressing System in Use as Preventative Device
20 institutionalized elderly patients were enrolled in a 6 week trial to determine if a new dressing system was a viable option for prevention of skin tears. Half the patients utilized the Action bandage system and half wore other types of protective devices. Mid-way through the trials, patients were changed to the alternate device, as a control measure.
The trial group (wearing the new dressing system), in both 3 week sections of the trial, sustained 38% less skin tears than did the control group wearing alternate devices.
Epidemiology of Skin Tears
In the United States, reports show that 1.5 million skin tears occur each year in institutionalized adults.
Prevention of skin breakdown and protection of fragile tissue are common challenges for clinicians when dealing with various types of wounds and ulcers1.
Skin tears are traumatic wounds resulting from the separation of the epidermis from the dermis; skin tears may be partial or full thickness; they are painful, may lead to infection and increase caregiver time and facility costs 2.
References on file.
