Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD) is a common, painful and difficult-to-treat skin condition that remains a continuous challenge for incontinence patients worldwide. All patients with incontinence are at risk of developing IAD and can experience a range of symptoms including discomfort, pain, insomnia and a reduced quality of life. Sometimes the condition can also develop into larger secondary infections.
Of those who suffer with incontinence, 1 in 4 will also suffer from IAD. With the right skin care regimen and continence care routines, IAD can be prevented.
When changing incontinence products, make sure that you screen the skin for any redness, inflammation, rashes, pains or itching that could point towards the development of IAD (and to ensure the patient has not developed pressure ulcers).
Proper screening procedure should follow the below steps:
- Remove the incontinence product.
- Gentle cleansing (preferably without water).
- Apply a moisture and barrier application to regenerate and protect the skin.
- Apply new incontinence product.
Regular screening ensures that caregivers will notice any changes or developments occurring in the skin and can set in with the right preventive measure in time to avoid a worse infection.
Gentle Cleansing
As a part of an IAD skin care regiment, the skin needs to be cleansed gently and without water. We recommend to-rinse cleansers such as wet wash gloves or wet wipes since rinsing with soap and water can further damage irritated skin. Products such as wet wipes and wet wash gloves save time and improves efficiency in daily care, freeing up time for more screening and preventive care.
Washing Lotion
Waterless washing lotions are a mild and effective cleansing product for personal hygiene – and a good alternative to washing with harsh soaps. Using washing lotion avoids leaving any soap residue on the skin, which can be a strong irritant.
Washing lotion is the ideal solution for bedridden, immobile and/or incontinence patients.
Moisture and Barrier Application
Zinc spray and ointments provide both moisture and barrier protection to help restore and protect the skin. Spray-on products are easy to use and cause less friction on sensitive skin.
- When applying moisture or barrier protection, make sure the skin is clean and dry.
- Be sure to apply the correct amount of product as too much can prevent the skin from breathing or be absorbed into a continence product, thus making the incontinence product less effective.
After applying the IAD skin care regimen, an essential part of quality continence care is using high-quality breathable incontinence products and bed protection sheets.
