Wound care of the elderly is a major focus in facility settings as well as homecare. A program of prevention and management of impaired skin integrity will reduce the risk of developing wounds.
The causes of mechanical skin damage to elderly patient's skin are:
1. The washcloth material is too harsh and rough to be used on delicate skin.
2. There is an element of force and friction as the skin is rubbed while bathing the patient.
3. Hot water used for baths has a drying effect on the skin.
4. The cleansers used are often drying and may alter the skin's pH level.
5. Towel drying has a disrupting effect on the skin's barrier function.
Skin Integrity in the Elderly
Ezbath is an appropriate bathing alternative for patients with limited mobility and patients on the dementia spectrum. It is a non-woven, lint free material creating the feel of soft cotton. Each of the of 8 large 9.4″x11.8″ bathing cloths remain moist throughout the bathing process. The formulation contains evaporating no-rinse cleansers and emollients, thereby reducing skin damage often attributed to friction created by washcloths and towel drying.
"Much less harsh on the residents’ skin… 'blows it out of the water'”
– Director of Clinical Services