2143 Minimal ingredient wipes for geriatric care

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Wipes are a practical solution for cleansing skin and widely used in children, neonates, and in geriatric care. Effective cleansing requires low liquid surface tension (<40 mN/m), and many wipes contain surfactants to achieve this [1, 2]. However, these compounds may cause dryness, itching, irritation, and inflammation [1]. Age-related degeneration in skin suppleness decreases skin viability, often leading to irritation and incontinence-associated dermatitis, especially in frail nursing home residents [3]. By utilising purification technology, it is possible to lower liquid surface tension for cleansing and mitigate negative skin reactions caused by surfactants and additives. One minimal ingredient surfactant-free wipe (SF-wipe) achieves a solution surface tension of <35 mN/m, facilitating effective cleansing without surfactants [2]. These SF-wipes demonstrated superior results in a prospective study where neonates experienced significantly fewer days of clinically significant irritant diaper dermatitis [4]. The aim of this exploratory study was to understand current behaviours around personal hygiene and attitude towards SF-wipes in nursing homes. Method Four nursing care homes (n = 71 residents) received SF-wipes to trial. Feedback on effects and usability was gathered through interviews and reported qualitatively. Results Nursing staff indicated that the SF-wipes were soft, non-drying, non-abrasive, and facilitated faster in-bed bathing versus previous methods. Using SF-wipes did not lead to skin irritation in most residents, though some experienced transient skin coldness after use. Conclusions The high prevalence of skin conditions like incontinence-associated dermatitis in nursing home residents [5] means SF-wipes may prove beneficial versus surfactant-containing wipes, mirroring findings in neonates. Further studies are needed to prove this.