Periwound Skin: Understanding and Managing the Skin Surrounding Wounds
Proper care of the periwound skin—the area extending approximately 1.5 inches from the wound edge—is essential for effective wound healing. This delicate skin is susceptible to damage from moisture, adhesives, and infection, which can impede the healing process. Read the full article.
Key Highlights:
- Moisture-Associated Skin Damage (MASD): Excessive wound exudate can lead to maceration, causing redness, irritation, and pain in the periwound area. Managing moisture levels is crucial to prevent skin breakdown.
- Medical Adhesive-Related Skin Injury (MARSI): Improper application or removal of wound dressings can strip the skin, leading to MARSI. Over 25% of post-surgical patients experience MARSI in the periwound region.
- Signs of Periwound Complications: Indicators include induration (hardening), erythema (redness), swelling, bruising, red streaks emanating from the wound, fever, or general malaise.
- Prevention Strategies:
- Gently clean the periwound area during each dressing change.
- Use barrier creams like petroleum jelly to protect against moisture.
- Minimize dressing changes to those recommended by healthcare providers.
- Carefully remove adhesives by pressing down on the skin beneath to reduce trauma.
- Regularly assess the periwound area for any changes or signs of damage.
- Treatment Approaches: Addressing periwound skin damage involves preventing further injury and promoting healing. This may include repositioning bandages, using barrier creams, and consulting healthcare providers for tailored care plans.
Maintaining the integrity of the periwound skin is vital for optimal wound healing. Incorporating periwound care into the overall wound management plan can enhance patient outcomes and reduce complications.
Read the full article on the Verywell Health website.
Keywords:
periwound skin,
moisture-associated skin damage,
medical adhesive-related skin injury,
wound healing,
barrier creams