While diaper rash is often associated with baby’s. Diaper rash (irritant diaper dermatitis) can occur in adults who have incontinence. Of most concern would be patients who are bedridden. These patients need to be on a routine to maintain skin care and overall health. Diaper rash can lead to skin breakdown if not properly treated.

Diaper rash occurs in the area where incontinence occurs, the buttocks, anal area, and genitals. Visual indicators include redness of the skin, raised bumps, and burned looking skin. Reasons that diaper rash occurs when the pH of the skin increases when a prolonged presence of urine and fecal matter is in contact with the skin. Normal skin pH is about 4 to 6.5, and the lower the pH the more acidic.

Maintain a regular and frequent changing of incontinence products is important. The use of good incontinence products will absorb and lock in the urine, which will keep the moisture away from the skin. If possible, allowing the skin to breath will allow provide time for the skin to dry out.

Cleaning the affected area is also needed to maintain skin integrity. Perineal cleansers such as Avianne’s Hazel Fresh and Dermarite’s Perigiene are pH balanced, non-rising formulas which cleanses the perineal area. They also neutralize the ammonia found in urine and feces and therefore eliminates orders. The use of just plain soap and water can be messy, time consuming and dry the skin too much. The combination of a perineal cleanser and a disposable wipe make perineal care quick and easy.

Over the counter diaper creams and zinc based ointments such as Balmex, Desitin and Periguard Barrier Cream aid in the treatment and the prevention of the rashes. These creams provide a waterproof layer so that the skin does not come into contract to wetness. In addition, they contain vitamins, which will leave skin soft and supple.

Comfort Shield Wipes offers the combination of a perineal cleanser, diaper cream and wipe in a convenient package easy to use. It also can be warmed in the microwave to increase patient comfort.

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Noah Lam has over 15 years of experience of providing high quality medical supplies and healthcare products from Acute Care Facilities to parents and children. His company, CWI Medical is a leading provider of skin care products to healthcare facilities and for home use. In addition, CWI Medical is an ACHC Accredited organization maintaining standards of excellence in the Healthcare Field. For more information, please visit CWI Medical.