Wound Care Made Incredibly Easy

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External threats to skin integrity

This leg ulcer in an area of chronic eczema is related to chronic edema changes in the skin and subcutane ous tissue. Maceration around the edges shows that wound exudate (known to be high in proteases) is further compromising the periwound skin. Skin edge injuries were treated with zinc oxide in Unna wrap compression, which also decreased the amount of exudate through compression and allowed healing.

This neuropathic foot ulcer with some callus has maceration at the wound edges, evidence of ICD that impaired wound closure. Paring the callus and replacing the regular foam with a super-absorbent dressing to absorb excess exudate allowed the now healthy wound edges to close.

Quick quiz

1. The term “acid mantle” refers to:

A. wound dressings with an acidic pH. B. adult incontinence briefs with curly fibers that are acidic. C. function of the skin that protects us from pathogens. D. acidic pH of the stomach mucosa that assists in digesting food. Answer: C. An acidic pH of the skin is a hostile environment to harmful bacteria and fungi. 2. Friction is a physical force that can cause: A. pressure injuries. B. allergic contact dermatitis. C. xerosis. D. abrasions. Answer: D. Any skin injury increases the risk of pressure injuries, but friction cannot cause them. Friction can cause abrasions and skin tears and increase the risk of ITD.

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