Tissue Viability Team
Contact Number – 0191 333 3584
Providing awareness and understanding regarding Moisture Lesions
What is a moisture lesion?
A moisture lesion is skin damage cause by exposure, over a long period of time, to urine, faeces or other bodily fluids (Gray et al,2011). Moisture lesions can appear as sore patches and blisters and they can vary in size, colour and shape. They are usually found in skin folds and creases and can often be irregular in shape.
What can cause a moisture lesion?
Moisture lesions can be cause by excessive exposure to moisture over a long period of time. There are four main causes which are;
- urinary incontinence (involuntary passing of urine),
- faecal incontinence (involuntary passing of faeces),
- leaky wounds (can cause the skin to soften and breakdown),
- Excessive sweating (leads to a build up of moisture in folds and creases of skin).
Signs and symptoms of a moisture lesion
- Red,sore unbroken skin
- Shiny moist skin with superficial skin loss or pin point areas of broken skin that can blister or bleed
- Multiple smaller areas or large areas of broken skin where the skin has been stripped away, exposing deep tissues.
How are moisture lesions treated
Cleaning of the skin following each episode of incontinence can help but inappropriate cleaning can worsen then skin. Using skin cleansers rather than soap is advised due to soap dehydrating the skin. Skin cleansers can be provided in either a foam, sprays or wipes. No rinse cleansers usually contain a non-irritant suface active agent, which aids to reduce surface friction and removal of dirt.
The use of barrier products can protect the skin by providing a protective film. These can be supplied in the form of creams,sprays, wipes or applicators. Creams can be applied to dry skin that is intact, whereas sprays, wipes or applicators can be applied to broken and intact skin. All products should be applied as advised by the manifacturer.
It is important that when a product is used to make sure it will not reduce absorbancy of any continence pads used. In individuals at a higher risk of developing a moisture lesion, devices to divert incontinence should be considered.
Prevention tips
- Ensure the skin is cleaned with warm water
- Ensure the skin has been dried thoroughly by patting to prevent friction from rubbing
- Use a non-soap cleanser
- Ensure incontinence aids are checked and changes on a regular basis
- Use an appropriate barrier cream
- Do not use talcum powder as this can cause more damage
Where can I get further information?
During your hospital stay if you or your family require further information or wish to discuss this, please contact the Ward Staff or the Tissue Viability Team.
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