NCLEX-PN

Promoting Skin Health for Incontinent Clients Ensuring proper skin care for incontinent clients is essential to prevent skin breakdown and maintain their overall comfort and well-being. Maintaining cleanliness and dryness is crucial, and the use of briefs can help maintain dignity and facilitate easier cleaning by staff. However, it's important to note that briefs should not be used as a means to allow clients to remain in soiled conditions without proper care from nursing staff. Topical Skin Preparations Along with frequent washing and drying of areas exposed to urine and feces, various topical skin preparations can aid in preventing skin breakdown: ●​ Solid Skin Barriers : These moldable barriers, such as Hollister's Flextend and Premium Skin Barrier, can be shaped as needed. They consist of components like hydrocolloids, gelatine, and more. While they are longer-lasting, they are relatively more expensive. ●​ Moisture Barrier Ointments : Products like Lantiseptic Skin Protectant, Calmoseptine Ointment, and Proshield Plus Skin, containing zinc oxide, are applied after episodes of incontinence and washing. They serve to prevent incontinence-associated dermatitis. ●​ Moisture Barrier Pastes : Thick preparations like Remedy Calazime Protectant Paste and Ilex Skin Protectant Paste offer protection against skin breakdown while allowing nurses to assess the underlying skin. They are applied after cleaning. ●​ Skin Sealants : Skin sealants, such as Film Wipe, Shield Skin, Bard Protective Barrier, and Convatec's Allkare, form a transparent polymer film on the skin. Applied through wipes or sprays, they last for about 14 days after application. By utilizing these topical skin preparations, nurses can effectively prevent and manage skin issues associated with incontinence, ensuring the comfort and well-being of their incontinent clients. Using Alternative Methods to Promote Urinary Elimination Urinary catheters play a significant role in promoting urinary elimination in certain situations. These catheters are available in various sizes, denoted in French (Fr), and the appropriate size depends on factors like age and gender. Inserting a urinary catheter is a sterile procedure and can only be performed by registered nurses and licensed practical nurses , as it requires strict adherence to infection control practices. Procedure for Inserting a Urinary Catheter: 1.​ Ensure Privacy and Explanation : Provide the client with privacy and explain the procedure to alleviate any anxiety. Understand that this procedure invades the client's personal space and may cause discomfort.

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