Topic: Moisture management poses a challenge for the WOC nurse. Treatment option selection questions arise in highly exudative venous stasis ulcers, hyperhydrosis, intertrigo of deep skin folds, perspiration in toe web spaces, periwound management of draining wounds, and/or interdigit wounds.

Purpose: In our practice we have encountered denudement related to poorly managed moisture or failure of wounds to progress in the presence of copious drainage. Patients report comfort concerns related to burning, itching, and pain. In addition, secondary skin infections frequently occur in the presence of prolonged moisture in dark, warm, moist environments ie. deep folds, under compression wraps, toe web spaces. Traditional methods of moisture management are not always easy, reliable or successful. There are multiple treatment options recommended to achieve the goal of moisture management. The decision making tree is multifaceted, in determining etiology and its corresponding treatment. There is conflict between products that address dry vs wet, wicking vs. absorbing, applying powder vs ointment, treating dermaphytes vs. bacteria, choosing pharmaceutical options vs OTC products. There is confusion in practice, implementation of treatment modalities, and educating the patient and/or staff. Therefore, a time efficient, patient friendly, cost effective solution is sought

Objective: Our objective is to explore a single treatment option that addresses these conflicting modalities. Streamlining and simplifying resolves the confusion in implementation, treatment and education. Overall the most important objective is patient comfort and effective moisture management.

Outcomes: The use of a new knitted polyurethane coated textile with silver and appropriate topical wound treatment has demonstrated effective moisture management in highly exudative venous stasis ulcers, hyperhydrosis, intertrigo, management of periwound wound skin integrity, some of which are shown in the case study format of this poster.