Top tips from our tissue viability team

May 4, 2020

Following the tissue viability mobile skin clinics, here are some of our top tips for looking after your skin:

HANDS: red, sore and dry from hand washing?

• TIP: Ensure thoroughly dry and pat dry rather than rub. Don’t forget to dry in between your fingers.
• TIP: Barrier cream can be used to reduce the drying effects of frequent hand washing. Use it sparingly and continue with normal hand hygiene and moisturising.
• TIP: Moisturise, moisturise, moisturise!

NOSE: pressure damage, redness, irritation, discomfort from the PPE masks?

• TIP: Try to take regular breaks – every 2 hours is practical.
• TIP: Get FIT tested for another mask so you can alternate between them.
• TIP: Use barrier film to protect but remember to use the Appeel adhesive remover too to prevent a build up.
• TIP: If you have been FIT tested to use duoderm under your mask, remember any of it exposed will be contaminated. Use Appeel adhesive remover to remove slowly and gently (don’t pull it off!).
• TIP: If your skin breaks, complete an Incident report.
• TIP: Try not to pull straps too tight.
• TIP: Take photos so the TV nurses can review if required.

FACE: red, irritated, swollen? Hands: breaking down?

• TIP: Contact the tissue viability mobile skin clinic for advice and to discuss a dermatology referral. You can contact them on ext. 3278 or email tissueviability2@nhs.net.