Purpose of SecureSleeves for Arms and Legs:
Skin bruises, abrasions and tears caused by minor trauma are a common complication in patients/residents with friable skin. SecureSleeves are designed to:
- Protect sensitive, friable skin from trauma.
- Protect against odor causing bacteria often accompanying deep wound and skin problems.
- Protect I.V. and wound sites.
Facts About Skin Trauma
The risk of skin trauma (bruises, abrasions and tears) is great in patients / residents with sensitive skin. Skin trauma frequently occurs during:
- A fall against or bump into furnishings with sharp edges, such as dressers, tabletops, chair frames, wheelchairs, unpadded side rails, and other objects.
- Caregiver assistance with mobility (lifting, turning, positioning and transferring techniques).
Injured Body Part
- The upper extremities (forearm and hand) are most frequently the site of injury, followed by the leg.
Identified Risks for Skin Trauma
- Advanced age
- High fall risk status
- Sensory loss
- Compromised nutrition
- History of previous skin trauma
- Cognitive impairment
- Dependency
- Poor mobility
- Polypharmacy
- Use of an assistive device
- Decreased vision
Prevention of Skin Trauma
- Patients / residents should be encouraged to wear long sleeves, pants or SecureSleeves for protection against injury.
- Educate staff on the importance of carefully handling elderly patients/residents with frail skin. Encourage proper positioning, turning, lifting, and transferring techniques.
- Provide padding to bed rails, wheelchair arm and leg supports, and any other equipment that may be utilized to protect the patient/resident from accidentally bumping into a hard surface.
- Provide a well-lit environment to minimize the risk of patients/residents bumping into equipment or furniture.
How to Use SecureSleeves for Arms and Legs:
- In patients / residents at risk for skin trauma, use SecureSleeves to protect frail skin of arms and legs.
- In patients / residents with skin wounds, use SecureSleeves to secure nonadherent dressings.
- In patients / residents receiving intravenous therapy, use SecureSleeves to protect I.V. site.
Posted May 2010
advertisement
