Skin breakdown refers to damage to the skin's integrity. This can range from minor scrapes, cuts, tears, blisters, or burns to more serious pressure injuries. Minor skin breakdown is typically limited to the top layer of skin and is caused by friction, shear, moisture, or pressure.
Examples of skin breakdown include:
- Pressure injuries: Also known as bedsores or decubitus ulcers, these occur when sustained pressure on a bony prominence restricts blood flow, leading to tissue damage.
- Friction injuries: These are caused by the rubbing of skin against a surface, such as when someone is dragged across a bed sheet.
- Shear injuries: These occur when the skin is stretched in opposite directions, such as when a patient slides down in bed.
- Moisture-related skin breakdown: This can occur due to prolonged exposure to moisture, such as from incontinence or sweating.
Preventing skin breakdown is crucial as it can lead to infection, pain, and prolonged healing times. It's essential to identify risk factors for skin breakdown and implement preventative measures to minimize the risk of occurrence.
