Skin Tears & Securing Devices On Geriatric & Neonatal Patients

Securing Tubes & Devices to Young Skin

Neonates have a developing epidermal barrier that is more permeable and more reactive to the environment through the first 2 years of their lives. Skin tears are commonly are linked to device trauma or adhesive use. In many cases, they occur on the head, face, and extremities.

In response to this need Hy-Tape created a 1/4 inch wide roll of tape for neonatal and pediatric use, so there is little to no need for trimming the width of the tape. Hy-Tape is a waterproof and washable tape especially suited for use with endotracheal tubes and devices that may exist in the presence of secretions. The zinc oxide in the adhesive soothes the skin and aids in the reduction of injuries such as Medical adhesive-related skin injury (MARSI) and can help reduce the chance of dermatitis. Another unique feature that makes it work so well with ET tubes and monitoring devices is Hy-Tapes elasticity which allows for movement which decreases the chance of skin damage.

Securing Tubes & Devices to Old Skin

Skin on geriatric patients lacks elasticity and the thick collagen layer of the skin starts to thin out as part of the natural aging process. This process is sped up with prolonged exposure to UV light from the sun. Unfortunately the skin most effected by the depletion of the outermost layer of the epidermis is the forearm and this is the area that is often utilized for tube and device attachments. Repeated taping will strip skin cells and increase the occurrences of skin tears and injuries.

The unique qualities that make Hy-Tape ideal for young and old patients are:

Learn more about Wound Care and Hy-Tape

Learn more about Tube Securement for Preemies & Babies

Learn more about Tips for Securing the Cannula in Infants and Children