An Oldie but Goodie..a Simple Strategy to Heal Painful Irritated Skin

The use of aluminum acetate is well documented for the treatment of ear infections and in the dermatology literature for treatment of rashes.  This lesser known intervention should be considered by the WOC nurse as part of a management plan for complex wound and ostomy patients.  Its astringent and antiseptic properties are effective on moist weepy skin.

Statement of the problem-Peristomal and peri-wound skin breakdown due to leakage, allergy, IAD, or infection can lead to pain, costly use of products, nursing time and admission to acute care.

Description of past management- Traditional use of absorptive or anti-fungal powder sealed in with a barrier wipe or spray to the affected area is not always successful in healing weepy skin or keeping ostomy appliances in place.

Current clinical approach- A case study series of 3 patients with severe peristomal, peri-tube breakdown or IAD treated with aluminum acetate soaks.  After reconstituting per package instructions, soaks were applied for 20 minutes with each appliance change or three times a day and as needed for patient comfort depending on skin condition.

Patient outcomes- Use of this plan resulted in significant improvement in skin condition, decreased pain, improved ostomy pouch wear time with resultant decrease in cost and nursing time.

Nursing Care Considerations- This is an inexpensive, easily accessible option for skin management across the lifespan.  Aluminum acetate dispensed in powder form so must be reconstituted. There are options of strength to reconstitute the powder, and this should be taken into consideration depending on condition of skin and patient’s sensitivity to the aluminum acetate.  It is easy for both patient and caregiver to use and is very soothing to painful denuded skin.

Conclusions- This is an effective and easy management strategy for challenging skin and pouching situations. The aluminum acetate soaks healed skin quickly.