Skin Tear Prevention

Skin tears are a common problem for the elderly as skin thins and becomes more fragile. Any shearing, friction, or blunt trauma can result in very significant injuries to the skin. Even a simple injury can cause significant tears: bumping into furniture, falls, pets, or even removing a band aid.
 
Factors that increase chances of a skin tear include thinning outer layer of the skin, loss of the under layer of skin, and drier skin. Also the elasticity of the skin decreases as we age, making it more prone to injury. Some risk factors can’t be changed, such as age or immobility, but there are some things you can do to minimize your risk of having one of these very uncomfortable injuries.
 
How to Prevent Skin Tears

• Wear long sleeves, long pants, or knee high socks.
• Consider shin guards if repeated tears to shins
• Evaluate environment for potential areas of risk, such as sharp corners on furniture,
• Remove scatter rugs
• Make sure lighting is adequate
• Ensure good nutrition to support skin health – especially protein
• Good hydration to prevent skin dryness
• Use a good quality hypoallergenic lotion daily to keep skin moist
• Keep fingernails and toenails trimmed short
• Avoid adhesive products whenever possible
• Remove band aids carefully

 
Skin tears are equivalent to a burn, are prone to infection, and take a long time to heal. Treatment can take weeks to months, depending on the size and severity. Prevention of this serious injury can save a lot of suffering and expense. Take a little time to take care of your skin!
 
To your health-
Tracy