Understanding the vulnerability of a baby's skin to help treat and prevent nappy rash

Abstract

With an estimated one third of all nappy wearing babies and toddlers experiencing nappy rash at any one time, it is critical that health professionals both understand the causative factors of nappy rash while also having full insight into prevention and management of this common complaint. Nappy rash can range in severity from mild to severe and can cause great discomfort and distress. Understanding the process and timescale of how a newborn's skin changes and develops helps support health professionals in understanding why certain skin cleansing regimes are supported, ensuring best practice is implemented.