An approach to managing skin tears in the elderly population: A case series

Skin tears (STs) are prevalent acute wounds found in the elderly population. The associated fragile peri-wound skin complicates dressing selection for individuals suffering from STs. In recent literature there has been as increase in the attention given to these wounds, however there has been no gold standard for their management. Through case study format this poster will present an evaluation of one treatment option available for STs.  

Method:

A convenience sample of 20 individuals (age >65) living in a long-term care facility presenting with type 1 or 2 STs of less than 4 hours duration were treated with a 2-Octylcyanoacrylate Topical Bandage. Wound healing time, dressing cost, patient satisfaction and pain associated with the dressing change were recorded for each individual.

Findings:

Complete closure in 20 out of 20 wounds in 2 weeks with one application of 2-Octylcyanoacrylate Topical Bandage. Patients denied any pain with application. There were no signs and symptoms of infection at wound sites.

Registered staff reported no problems encountered with the application of product and reported decrease nursing time required for wound care (approximately 5 minutes per wound) and increased patient comfort. Cost per application was estimated to be $5.00 (CAD)/application based on unit price. An added benefit reported by staff included that with the use of the 2-Octylcyanoacrylate Topical Bandage patients were less likely to scratch and pick at wound site.

Conclusion:

Through case study format, this poster highlighted one economical and effective method for treating type 1 and 2 STs in the elderly population living in long term care, however due to the small sample size these results may not be generalizable. The results demonstrated the need for further study into the wound healing benefits of 2-Octylcyanoacrylate Topical Bandage in the treatment of skin tears and it’s cost effectiveness.