Common Causes and Mechanisms of Skin Breakdown Immobility, poor nutrition, incontinence, medications, hydration, impaired mental status, and loss of sensation are other culprits in skin breakdown. Mechanical injury develops from friction and shearing forces; this can take place while sitting or lying in bed.

What is the main cause of skin breakdown?

Pressure is the biggest cause of skin breakdown and sores because it decreases blood flow to the skin. It is most likely to occur over bony areas where there is not much padding between the skin and the bones. Shearing happens when something stretches or pulls on the skin.

How do you stop old skin from breaking down?

Here are some ways to ward off skin breakdown:

1. Assess the patient’s skin regularly—from head to toe.
2. Check the patient’s feet daily, even if the patient doesn’t have diabetes.
3. Turn and reposition the patient as needed.
4. Keep skin dry.
5. Evaluate the patient’s nutritional status.

What does it mean when your skin breaks down?

A pressure sore (also called pressure ulcer, decubitus ulcer, decubiti (plural), bedsore or skin breakdown) is an area of the skin or underlying tissue (muscle, bone) that is damaged due to loss of blood flow to the area. Blood flow to the skin keeps it alive and healthy. If the skin does not get blood, it will die.

How do you prevent skin tears on an elderly patient?

Comprehensive recommendations for the prevention of skin tears in the elderly have been published. Most are common-sense recommendations, such as eliminating trip hazards and removing dressings gently, and some, such as wearing protective socks and moisturising, are supported by compelling evidence.

What are the warning signs of skin breakdown?

Skin breakdown starts out as a red or purple spot on fair skin or a shiny, purple, blue or darker spot on dark skin, which does not fade or go away within 20 minutes. When you press on the spot with your finger, it does not become lighter (blanch). It may feel warmer or cooler than the skin around it.

Which area of the body is at higher risk of skin breakdown?

The most common sites are the back of the head and ears, the shoulders, the elbows, the lower back and buttocks, the hips, the inner knees, and the heels. Pressure injuries may also form in places where the skin folds over itself. And they can occur where medical equipment puts pressure on the skin.

Why do older adult patients have a greater risk for skin breakdown?

Older adults are at a higher risk because of the skin aging process. As skin ages, the junction between the epidermis and dermis thins and flattens, reducing circulation. Moisturizing factors in older adults also reduce, thus causing dry, flaky skin and increased risk of skin breakdown.

How do you take care of skin breakdown?

Strategies for Preventing Skin Breakdown

1. Patient Repositioning and Turning. Bedbound patients require regular turning and repositioning to prevent the formation of pressure injuries.
2. Proper Skin Cleaning.
3. Proper Nutrition and Fluid Intake.
4. Assessment and Documentation.
5. Staff Education.

How do hospitals prevent skin breakdown?

Skin care in hospital

1. Keep your skin clean and dry.
2. Avoid any products that dry out your skin.
3. Use a water-based moisturiser daily.
4. Check your skin every day or ask for help if you are concerned.
5. If you are at risk of pressure sores, a nurse will change your position often, including during the night.

What is the third stage of skin breakdown?

During stage 3, the sore gets worse and extends into the tissue beneath the skin, forming a small crater. Fat may show in the sore, but not muscle, tendon, or bone. At stage 4, the pressure injury is very deep, reaching into muscle and bone and causing extensive damage.

How does moisture cause skin breakdown?

Moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) is caused by prolonged exposure to various sources of moisture, including urine or stool, perspiration, wound exudate, mucus, saliva, and their contents. MASD is characterized by inflammation of the skin, occurring with or without erosion or secondary cutaneous infection.

What is the medical term for skin breakdown?

A pressure sore (also called pressure ulcer, decubitus ulcer, bedsore, or skin breakdown) is an area of the skin or underlying tissue (muscle, bone) that is damaged due to loss of blood flow to the area.

What is the best treatment for skin tears in the elderly?

First, gently clean the skin tear with a sterile water or isotonic saline solution. If it’s a smaller and more superficial tear, a gentle soap and water may be used. Then fully cover the tear, but don’t use an adhesive bandage directly on the wound.

What causes skin to become thin and tear easily?

Fragile or thin skin that tears easily is a common problem in older adults. Aging, sun exposure and genetics all play a role in thinning skin. Certain medications, such as long-term use of oral or topical corticosteroids, also can weaken the skin and blood vessels in the skin.

Is Vaseline good for skin tears?

Cuts and grazes The American Academy of Dermatology recommends petroleum jelly for keeping a wound moist and to help prevent it from drying out and forming a scab, because they take longer to heal. This will also help prevent a scar from getting too large, deep or itchy.