Incontinence-associated dermatitis 3: systems for reporting skin damage

Abstract

Moisture-associated skin damage - in particular, incontinence-associated dermatitis - is a risk factor for pressure ulceration. The two problems can occur independently in the same patient but require different treatment regimens. This final article in this three-part series describes current reporting systems for pressure ulceration and explains why moisture-associated skin damage has been included. Risk factors for incontinence-associated dermatitis are discussed in part 1, while part 2 focuses on strategies to maintain and support skin function.

This article has been double-blind peer reviewed

In this article…

• Patient safety initiatives to improve the assessment and reporting of pressure ulcers

• How to distinguish between a pressure ulcer and moisture-associated skin damage

• Why reporting of moisture-associated skin damage is important

Key points

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Pressure ulcer data collection is reported at local and national level

Moisture-associated skin damage is a risk factor for pressure ulcers

Local reporting of this damage enables the extent of the problem to be identified and steps to be taken to ensure appropriate management

Improved identification and management will contribute to pressure ulcer reduction