Incontinence Associated Dermatitis

Anyone who lives with incontinence is also at risk of developing uncomfortable skin conditions such as Incontinence Associated Dermatitis (IAD). Learn more about IAD, its causes and symptoms, and how to prevent it through our three-step process.

Who is at risk of developing IAD? 

All patients or residents with incontinence are at risk of developing IAD, but it is particularly people over the age of 65 who suffer from the condition. 

It is estimated that nearly 1 in 5 people with incontinence also have problems with IAD*.

 

How to prevent IAD

The good news is that, when treated early, incontinence-associated skin problems can be reduced and cured – and in most cases even prevented. A lot can be done by following a structured skin care program and using appropriate products that protect the skin in the perineal area.

We have divided the prevention of IAD into three steps:

  • Step 1: Breathable protection
  • Step 2: Gentle cleansing
  • Step 3: Moisture and barrier 

Step 1: Breathable protection  

The first step in preventing IAD is to choose the right incontinence product.

We always recommend choosing a product as small as possible and as large as necessary. This concerns both the size and absorbency of the product. A large product, that can absorb more, is not always better.

Besides being more wasteful, it can also be uncomfortable for the patient to wear a product that is too big. A larger product also covers more skin than needed, preventing the skin from breathing, and resulting in it being warm and moist. If the product doesn’t fit snugly on the patient, there is also the risk of leakages.

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right incontinence pad. The patient needs a product that is suitable for the amount and frequency he/she leaks, but it is equally important that the product is suitable for their everyday life, activity level, and personal preferences. Many people find that it is best to use a range of different products at different times of the day and for different activities.

However, it is always crucial to choose a product that allows the users’ skin to breathe, so that moisture can evaporate, and the skin is kept dry. In addition, it is also important to choose incontinence products that quickly absorb urine and keeps the inner layer dry against the skin even after multiple voids.

If you need help finding the right product for a patient, try our Incontinence Product Selector or contact us, and we would be happy to help. 

Screen the skin

After completing the three steps for IAD prevention, it’s time to apply a new incontinence product. Follow the three steps, every time an incontinence product needs to be changed, and always screen the skin for redness, inflammation, rashes, pain, or itching to assess the severity and development of IAD, and to ensure the patient has not developed pressure ulcers.
Regular screening ensures that caregivers notice changes and developments in the skin and can set in with the right preventive measure in time to avoid further development. 

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