Keywords

skin tear, skin tear classification system, wound care

 

Authors

  1. Baranoski, Sharon MSN, RN, CCNS-APN, CWCN, FAAN
  2. LeBlanc, Kimberly MN, RN, CETN(C)
  3. Gloeckner, Mary MS, RN, APN, CWON

Abstract

Although skin tears are common, particularly among older adults and neonates, they are often inadequately documented and poorly managed, resulting in complications, extended hospital stays, and negative patient outcomes. In this article, the first in a series on wound care in collaboration with the World Council of Enterostomal Therapists (http://www.wcetn.org), the authors describe the complications that developed in an elderly patient whose skin tear was improperly dressed and discuss best practices for preventing, assessing, documenting, and managing skin tears.