Development of a Need-based Interventional Skin Care Protocol on Incontinence-associated Dermatitis among Critically Ill Patients

BACKGROUND: Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is a potentially serious skin injury that can lead to pressure ulcers (PUs). Many studies have indicated the need for evidence to find the most effective skin care protocol to reduce the incidence and severity of IAD in critically ill patients. AIM AND OBJECTIVE: To develop a need-based interventional skin care protocol on IAD after identifying the risk of developing IAD in critically ill patients and by assessing the nurse's knowledge and practice on IAD. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Quantitative research approach with an exploratory research design was adopted in the study. A total of 40 staff nurses and 100 patients were included. To assess the knowledge of staff nurses regarding IAD, a knowledge questionnaire was administered and the IAD prevention practice among staff nurses was assessed with the help of an observation checklist. The risk of IAD among 100 critically ill patients was observed by the investigator, using a perineal risk assessment tool. The obtained data were analyzed by using descriptive and inferential statistics. The protocol was developed by the researcher and it was validated by 5 experts. RESULTS: The results revealed that most of patients (60%) had a high risk for development of IAD. Most of the nurses had poor knowledge (40%) and had poor practice in assessment, perineal area, and prevention of infection area. Hence considering all these aspects, a protocol was developed. CONCLUSION: The researchers developed a need-based skin care protocol to decrease the development of IAD. HOW TO CITE THIS ARTICLE: Sharma P, Latha S, Sharma RK. Development of a Need-based Interventional Skin Care Protocol on Incontinence-associated Dermatitis among Critically Ill Patients. Indian J Crit Care Med 2021;25(2):158–165.