What are the best practices for the treatment of skin tears in the elderly population?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48492/servir0216.40593Keywords:
Skin Tears, Best Practice, Treatment, Elderly Population, Nursing InterventionsAbstract
Introduction: With aging, the skin undergoes numerous changes that can compromise its functions and consequently increase the likelihood of skin tears.
Objectives: To identify and synthesize the best practices for the treatment of skin tears in the elderly population, considering current scientific evidence.
Methods: Scoping Review was conducted in November and December 2024, following the PCC methodology (Population, Concept, and Context). The research was carried out in the databases CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE Complete, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Nursing & Allied Health Collection: Comprehensive, and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews to answer the question: “What are the best practices for the treatment of skin tears in the elderly population?”
Results: The studies demonstrate fundamental steps in the treatment of skin tears, namely hemorrhage control, cleansing/debridement, management of infection/inflammation, control of moisture/exudate, and monitoring of the wound edges. The use of the STAR Skin Tear Classification System is recommended as an instrument for categorization and guidance in the treatment of skin tears. The suggested dressings include octyl cyanoacrylate, hydrogels, calcium alginates, hydrofibers, foams, and non-adherent mesh, with emphasis on the selection of materials that promote healing and minimize trauma during removal, such as silicone foams.
Conclusion: It was possible to synthesize the best practices in the treatment of skin tears in the elderly person, focused on standardized and multidisciplinary assessment, preservation of the skin flap, and the use of appropriate and atraumatic dressings. The implementation of personalized care protocols, combined with the continuous training of healthcare professionals, proves to be fundamental for the effective management of skin tears and for the sustained improvement of the quality of care delivery.
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