Tissue Viability Team raising awareness for Think MASD
On Thursday 17th March, the Trust took part in the first National Think MASD (Moisture Associated Skin Damage) awareness day.
MASD is a complexed and commonly recognised condition. Overexposure of the skin to bodily fluids can decrease its integrity causing it to be more susceptible to breakdown. MASD is frequently associated with incontinence, stoma sites, wet leaking wounds and in skin folds. This damage can cause other problems including; infection, pressure ulcers and pain that affects the patient’s quality of life. Therefore, the prevention and management of MASD is essential.
The Tissue Viability Team had an information stand/board in the main entrance which was supported by representatives from Mediline, who were there demonstrating their product Ultrasorb dry pads, (used to wick away moisture), to staff and visitors.
Further support was given by a representative from ConVaTec, who visited key wards to provide information and set up training dates for the bowel management system, used on specific patients in the Trust to prevent skin damage from excessive loose bowel movements.
The Tissue Viability Team visited wards across the Trust with information on prevention and management of MASD. The Trust’s MASD pathway was also relaunched to support staff with decision making around treatment.
The day was very well received with great participation by the ward staff who comp'eted the “my minimise” form identifying how they would prevent MASD for their patients.
The three simple steps were:
- Gently cleanse the skin with a balanced pH cleanser
- Keep excessive moisture away from skin
- protect and moisturise the skin
“Congratulations you found moisture” posters have been placed across the Trust until the end of the month for staff to find and claim a prize!!!