A Prospective, Multicenter Study to Compare a Disposable, High-fluid Capacity Underpad to Nonpermeable, Disposable,...

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Gerontology
• Nursing

Background:

• Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is prevalent in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs), often misdiagnosed as pressure injuries.
• Facility staff require clear differentiation between IAD and pressure injuries.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of substituting disposable, high-fluid capacity underpads for non-permeable containment products on IAD rates.
• To assess the effect on pressure injury incidence and staff differentiation between IAD and pressure injuries.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, multicenter study involving 40 SNF residents over 4 weeks.
• Residents used disposable, high-fluid capacity underpads, replacing previous containment products.
• The Perineal Assessment Tool (PAT) and Skin Condition Assessment Tool (SAT) were used to assess risk and IAD severity.

Main Results:

• Mean SAT scores for residents with IAD significantly decreased from baseline (3.3 ± 1.7) to week 4 (0.7 ± 1.4).
• No new IAD cases developed in high-risk residents with intact skin.
• Pressure injury incidence decreased, while IAD rates initially increased, suggesting short-term educational impact.

Conclusions:

• Disposable, high-fluid capacity underpads may reduce IAD severity and incidence in SNF residents.
• Improved differentiation between IAD and pressure injuries requires further research for sustained impact.
• Effective management of incontinence-associated skin conditions is crucial in long-term care settings.