Effectiveness of a standardized skin care protocol in reducing incontinence-associated dermatitis among critical care patients: A clinical investigation.

Background: Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is a common yet preventable skin condition among critically ill patients. Implementing standardized skin care protocols may help reduce its incidence and severity.

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of implementing a standardized skin care protocol in preventing IAD among critically ill patients.

Methods: A quasi-experimental research design adhering to the STROBE guidelines was used. The study was conducted in the intensive care units of a Governmental University Hospital, Egypt. A total of 100 adult critically ill patients were enrolled: 50 in the experimental group, who received the standardized skin care protocol, and 50 in the control group, who received routine skin care. Clinical and demographic data were collected. The study group followed the protocol for seven days. Two tools were used for data collection: Tool 1 involved demographic and clinical data, while Tool 2 included the Perineal Assessment Tool, the Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis Severity Instrument, and the Braden Scale for pressure ulcer risk assessment. Both groups were compared regarding the development of pressure ulcers, their locations, and the incidence of IAD.

Results: Application of the skin care protocol significantly reduced the incidence and severity of IAD in the study group compared to the control group. Significant predictors of increased risk for IAD included age, body mass index, fluid balance, and mean temperature (p ≤ 0.05). Serum albumin was not a significant predictor (p = 0.341).

Conclusions: Implementing a standardized skin care protocol effectively lowered the incidence and severity of IAD in critically ill patients and delayed its development. These findings highlight the importance of evidence-based skin care practices in intensive care settings.