Use of a Moisture Wicking Fabric for Prevention of Skin Damage Around Drains and Parenteral Access Lines.

Background: Skin damage under various drainage tubes and parenteral access lines occurs frequently in pediatric patients. Our team sought an alternative to the use of gauze or foam for prevention and management of peritubular skin damage.

Cases: We used a moisture wicking fabric in select patients in a tertiary children's hospital in Northern California. The fabric was placed under tracheostomy ties and around gastrostomy tubes and Penrose drains.

Conclusion: The moisture wicking fabric was effective in absorbing moisture and maintaining skin integrity. This new approach has been incorporated into our facility policy.