Moisturiser for prevention of skin tears

Prevention of skin tears in frail elderly patients. The majority of skin tears in these patients occur on the arms (54%) and legs (40%).

Moisturising the skin of elderly people reduces the incidence of skin tears by almost 50%.

Avoid lotion ingredients that may cause irritation such as:

• urea
• sodium lauryl sulphate
• fragrances

The lotion used in the trial is Abena® Skincare Lotion Unscented, which costs around A$13 for 500 ml. Other similar lotions may be used.

The lotion should:

• be pH neutral
• contain a non-irritating humectant (eg glycerine)
• contain an occlusive agent (eg paraffin or plant oil).

Similar available lotions include Cetaphil® Moisturising Lotion, Cetaphil® Daily Advance Lotion, Alpha Keri® Skin Moisture Boost Lotion and QV® Skin Lotion. These may be purchased from pharmacies, supermarkets and online.

Lotion is applied twice daily to the extremities in a gentle downward direction, preferably after bathing. It may be applied by patients (if able) or carers.

This is cost-effective and simple therapy should be considered for all patients at risk of skin tears.

Other strategies that may reduce skin tears include safe handling training, falls prevention. long-sleeved clothing, shin protectors and good nutrition.

QV Skin Tear Prevention Program: a toolkit for clinicians to implement a skin tear prevention program in aged care facilities.

_{* The RACGP and the HANDI team do not endorse QV over any other moisturiser broadly matching the description in the topic text.}

NHMRC Level II