Skin integrity and wound infection

The focus of this zone is on maintaining skin integrity and the prevention/management of bacterial ingress into the tissues.

Learning outcomes:
At the end of the workshop, delegates will: 

• Understand the skin barrier function
• Be aware of the role of emollients and skin care practices in preserving skin integrity
• Appreciate how entry of bacteria from the skin into broken tissue can increase local bioburden and contribute to biofilm formation
• Recognise the role of wound cleansing in removing debris and devitalised tissue and managing biofilm

The interactive zone will involve: 

• An interactive game exploring what happens when the skin barrier function is impaired
• A group demonstration of the variations in texture and effects of the various emollients available
• Quiz on the role of wound cleansing in wound infection