Nurse gently caring for elderly patient skin, symbolizing protection from IAD.

Battling Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis: A Nurse's Guide to Prevention and Care

Mira Elwood in Health & Wellness November 2025 • 4 min read.

"Discover essential strategies and self-reported knowledge for nurses to prevent and treat Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD) effectively in hospitalized elderly patients."

As the global population ages, healthcare providers face increasing challenges in managing age-related conditions. One significant issue is Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD), a common and distressing skin condition affecting many hospitalized elderly patients. IAD results from prolonged skin exposure to urine and feces, leading to irritation, inflammation, and potential infection.

Nurses play a crucial role in preventing, diagnosing, and treating IAD. Their frontline position allows them to identify early signs of skin damage and implement timely interventions. However, nurses' knowledge and practices can vary significantly, impacting the quality of care. Addressing this gap is essential to improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of IAD in healthcare settings.

This article explores the self-reported knowledge of nurses regarding IAD prevention and management in hospitalized elderly patients, drawing on insights from a recent study. By understanding the challenges nurses face and the strategies they employ, we can develop more effective approaches to combatting IAD and promoting better skin health for our aging population.

Understanding Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD)

Nurse gently caring for elderly patient skin, symbolizing protection from IAD.

Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD) is a localized skin breakdown caused by prolonged exposure to urine or stool. This moisture leads to skin irritation, inflammation, and erosion, causing significant discomfort and increasing the risk of secondary infections. The elderly are particularly vulnerable due to age-related skin changes, reduced mobility, and increased prevalence of incontinence.

Several factors contribute to the development of IAD, including:

Moisture: Prolonged contact with urine and feces softens the skin, making it more susceptible to damage.
Friction: Diaper use and frequent repositioning can cause friction, further irritating the skin.
Irritants: Enzymes and chemicals in urine and stool can directly irritate the skin.
Compromised Skin Barrier: Age-related changes and underlying health conditions can weaken the skin's natural barrier function.

Recognizing the signs and symptoms of IAD is crucial for early intervention. Key indicators include redness, inflammation, and skin breakdown in the perineal area. Without proper care, IAD can lead to pain, infection, and a decline in quality of life. Early detection and effective management are essential to prevent complications and promote healing.

Empowering Nurses for Better IAD Management

By addressing these gaps in knowledge and practice, healthcare facilities can empower nurses to provide more effective IAD prevention and treatment. Standardized protocols, ongoing training, and readily available resources are essential to ensure consistent, high-quality care for hospitalized elderly patients. Prioritizing education and resources will ultimately improve patient outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance the overall well-being of our aging population.

About this Article -

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This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.9789/2175-5361.2018.v10i3.801-809, Alternate LINK

Title: Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis In Hospitalized Elderly Patients: Nurses’ Self-Reported Knowledge / Dermatite Associada À Incontinência Em Idosos Hospitalizados: Conhecimento Autorreferido De Enfermeiros

Journal: Revista de Pesquisa Cuidado é Fundamental Online

Publisher: Universidade Federal do Estado do Rio de Janeiro UNIRIO

Authors: Bruna Riechel Strehlow, Vera Lucia Fortunato Fortes, Michael Vieira Do Amarante

Published: 2018-07-01

Everything You Need To Know

What is Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD), and why are elderly patients in hospitals particularly vulnerable?

Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD) arises from prolonged skin exposure to urine and feces. This exposure leads to skin irritation, inflammation, and potential infection. Elderly individuals are particularly susceptible due to age-related skin changes, reduced mobility, and a higher likelihood of incontinence. Preventing IAD involves minimizing moisture, reducing friction, protecting against irritants, and maintaining the skin's barrier function.

What factors contribute to the development of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD), and how do they affect the skin?

Several factors contribute to the development of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD). These include moisture from prolonged contact with urine and feces, which softens the skin; friction from diaper use and frequent repositioning; irritants like enzymes and chemicals in urine and stool; and a compromised skin barrier due to age-related changes and underlying health conditions. Addressing each of these factors is crucial in preventing and managing IAD effectively.

What are the key signs and symptoms of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD), and why is early detection important?

Key indicators of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD) include redness, inflammation, and skin breakdown in the perineal area. Early detection of these signs is essential for timely intervention. Without proper care, IAD can lead to pain, infection, and a decline in quality of life. Addressing these symptoms promptly helps prevent complications and promotes healing.

What role do nurses play in managing Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD) in elderly patients, and what support do they need?

Nurses play a critical role in preventing and managing Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD) in hospitalized elderly patients. Their frontline position enables them to identify early signs of skin damage and implement timely interventions. By addressing gaps in knowledge and practice through standardized protocols, ongoing training, and readily available resources, nurses can provide more effective care, improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.

How can healthcare facilities empower nurses to improve the prevention and treatment of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD), and what are the potential benefits?

Empowering nurses through standardized protocols, ongoing training, and readily available resources ensures consistent, high-quality care for hospitalized elderly patients. This approach will improve patient outcomes by preventing and effectively treating Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD), reducing healthcare costs associated with complications, and enhancing the overall well-being of the aging population. Prioritizing education and resources for nurses is essential in managing IAD effectively.