Managing pressure ulcers and moisture lesions with new hydrocolloid technology.

In efforts to reduce the number of avoidable pressure ulcers in a large trust, a number of initiatives have taken place to increase staff awareness about the importance of preventing and treating pressure ulcers and moisture lesions. New documentation, the use of the 'Think Pink' folders and a social media campaign have all proved successful in seeing the number of avoidable pressure ulcers reported within the trust reduce. As part of this initiative an evaluation took place of a new hydrocolloid dressing.

Assessing an adherent silicone foam dressing: a clinical evaluation across five NHS trusts.

The wound contact layer of UrgoTul Absorb Border (Urgo Medical) foam dressing contains a Technology Lipido Colloid (TLC) Healing Matrix, which includes hydrocolloid and lipophilic substances designed to stimulate fibroblast proliferation and thus promote granulation tissue formation. A multicentre, noncomparative, clinical evaluation of UrgoTul Absorb Border investigated whether use of the dressing promoted granulation tissue formation and the management of wound exudate. Other parameters evaluated included: pain-free dressing changes, protection and improvement of surrounding tissue, ease of application, conformability, ability to remain in place, wear time, effect on peri-wound skin, durability, ease of removal, and patient comfort.

The assessment and management of skin tears in care homes.

This article discusses a project conducted in Worcestershire nursing homes to review current practices in the management of skin tears and the subsequent development and implementation of guidelines resulting in a standardised client care package. An initial audit in five care homes was followed by an in-depth audit in 52 homes over a 12-week period. This led to the development of resources and the 'STAR box' to assist with implementation of timely and appropriate care delivery.

Wound care for patients with darkly pigmented skin.

This article examines the main skin or wound assessment parameters used for patients with darkly pigmented skin. Differences in skin pigmentation are discussed along with the challenges health professionals encounter in clinical practice and why linking theory to practice is vital.

Controversies in classifying and assessing grade 1 pressure ulcers.

Disagreement on how to assess grade 1 pressure ulcers has partly come about because there is no national grading system. There is debate about whether grade 1 ulcers are characterised by blanching or non-blanching erythema, whether damage starts at the epidermis or deeper at the interface of soft tissue and bone, and whether grade 1 ulcers are reversible. Purple ulcers are sometimes considered grade 1 tissue damage when, in fact, they signify full thickness skin loss.