1
Health education Number : GER-120
Prevention of the Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis
To deliver intelligent and holistic medicine and to provide the best healthcare Compassion Quality Innovation Accountability
All information above has been reviewed by Gerontology specialists Edited and published by the Department of Nursing,
Taichung Veterans General Hospital
Set date : 2017.08.30 Review date : 2018.10.24 Revised date:2020.10.15
2
1. What is incontinence-associated dermatitis?
It is known as red buttock or diaper rash. Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is characterized by skin damage following exposure to urine or stool, especially happen in people who are in critical condition, long-term bedridden, incontinent of urine or feces, and the elderly.
Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) not only brings pain, burning and itching, but also increased the risk of pressure injury or skin infections. Thus, the prevention of incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is vitally important.
2. What causes incontinence-associated dermatitis?
Risk factor of incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) including aging skin, incontinence, over-hydrating the skin, activity limitation, decreased sensory perception, friction (caused by absorbent pads or other materials) and inadequate cleaning of the exposed area.
3. How to prevent incontinence-associated dermatitis?
The focal points to prevent incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) are respectively cleansing, moisture and isolation.
(1) Cleansing
a. Choose sub acidic cleanser which has a PH bases similar to normal skin (PH4.6~6.2), and avoid the cleanser that contain alcohol which might dehydrate the skin and result in irritation and allergy. Besides, multifunctional skin cleanser is recommended after defecation.
b. It would be better to clean the skin by tapping rather than scrubbing in order to avoid the friction which may cause scratch.
c. It’s important to change the diaper as soon as possible after every excretion. If patient occur in sever diarrhea, fecal pouch and Flexi-seal is recommended.
(2) Moisture
For patients who need to change the diaper frequently, it’s necessary to moisturize the skin by using high content cream.
3
(3) Isolation
a. Products such as cream, ointment and hydrocolloid can be use to protect the skin, isolate urine or feces and also decrease the friction with diaper.
b. If abrasion occurred, do not apply any medication to the area without prescription. Consult dermatologist or certification wound care nurse if necessary.
c. Diaper or bottom sheet that is not breathable will lead to over humidity and skin infiltration. The best way is stop using diaper or choose a breathable bottom sheet for the patient.
d. For patients who have to wear diaper for long-period should check the skin every two hours and keep well ventilate.
4. Conclusion
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure! Comply with the guide of health care workers, clean the skin with appropriate products, and change absorbent or containment pads regularly, so that you can prevent future episodes of incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) without difficulty.