The overall objective of this study is to determine the prevalence and nosocomial incidence of incontinence associated dermatitis (IAD) among long term acute care (LTAC) patients.

Background and Significance:

Recent literature suggests many reported Stage I and Stage II pressure ulcers actually may be attributable to IAD. In March, 2005, a pilot prevalence study of IAD and perineal skin injury was performed in acute care facilities in the United States (Junkin, 2005; Junkin 2007). In this study, among patients with more than one perineal skin injury, IAD and pressure ulcers were the most frequent combination. To our knowledge, there are no published reports of IAD prevalence/incidence in the LTAC population.

Study Design:

This was a cross sectional observational cohort study. Data was collected as a component of standard protocol skin inspections performed by the wound team at the LTAC. All data was collected within a 24 hour period from February 20-21, 2007. Data collection was observational and performed using a modified version of the data collection tool developed by a company* that markets perineal skin care products.

Study Population:

Ninety-six patients were present and eligible for data collection. Refusal to participate in the study or inability to gain consent for participation resulted in exclusion of 16 patients. Data was obtained from 80 participants.

Study Results:

Data currently being compiled with results pending.

References:

Junkin J, Moore-Lisi G, Selekof JL (2005) What we don’t know can hurt us: Pilot prevalence survey of incontinence and related perineal skin injury in acute care. Poster presentation at Clinical Symposium on Advances in Skin and Wound Care Las Vegas, NV October 23-26. Junkin J, Selekof JL (2007) Prevalence of incontinence and associated skin injury in the acute care inpatient Journal of Wound, Ostomy, Continence Nursing, 34(3):260-9.

*Sage Products, Inc.