A comparitive cost benefit analysis study of similar no sting skin preparation barrier products

Introduction: This is a comparative,cost benefit analysis study of similar no sting skin preparation barrier products.  The products are used to assist in the prevention of epidermal stripping resulting from adhesive removal,and to protect the skin from different types of effluent. Sixty registered nurses at a large home care agency performed a blind test using prep pads from two companies. 

   Methodology: Nurses compared and contrasted four products using a rubric designed to assess overall functionality of each product. This tool accounts for the ablility of each product to protect the skin while using high grade adhesives and for the adequacy of product quantity per unit dose to acheive coverage of given skin surface area.  The rapidity and ease of application, including the time required for the product to dry,within a limited time frame of treatment is noted. The ease of removal using skin cleanser, or soap and water, paying attention to any residue that remained was noted. They tested the ability of the products to provide adequate protection and remain effective in areas of frequent skin stress, such as joints. Nurses examined each product's ability to create a preventative barrier on top of the skin, product odor,as well as causticity,resulting in possible skin irritation.

Results and Discussion: Wand C has the highest scores for skin protection,quantity per dose, ease of application, protection under stress, barrier quality and odor. There was no significant difference in ease of removal,residue post removal,and causticity amongst the products. Wand C attained the highest scores and ranking by the nursing staff over Prep Pad A, Prep Pad B, and Wand D.