What is moisture-associated skin damage?
Moisture-associated skin damage (MASD) describes damage that occurs because of prolonged exposure to:
- Perspiration
- Urine
- Faeces
- Wound exudate.
Symptoms of MASD include the softening, swelling and wrinkling of the skin. The elderly, in particular, tend to be susceptible to skin maceration due to excessive heat and moisture.
What are Ultrasorbs?
The ULTRASORBS AP Drypad is an ultra-soft, non-woven, multi-layer breathable and disposable sheet designed for effective moisture management. The drypad contains a super-absorbent polymer, which locks away wetness and odour. This leaves the sheet dry to the touch and comfortable against the patient’s skin. It can be used with a variety of mattresses and bed configurations to provide waterproof protection.
Ultrasorbs Case Study
A study conducted in the United Kingdom and Germany showed that Medline’s Ultrasorbs AP Drypad was effective in managing moisture. In this study, five individuals ranging in age from 55 to 94 were given an Ultrasorbs AP Drypad.
Previously, the facilities in Germany and the UK were using absorbent hospital gauze, towels and incontinence pads to manage excess moisture, though unsuccessfully. This led to multiple bed linen changes, additional laundering costs and patient discomfort.
During the study, patients commented on the drypad’s soft feeling on the skin. And clinicians reported a decrease in skin maceration and an improvement in the skin’s overall condition.
Results
Drawing on patient and clinician feedback, the key findings from all five cases were that Ultrasorbs:
- Manage moisture better than other products.
- Enhance patient comfort and clinical outcomes.
- Reduce bed linen changes and therefore costs and labour.