Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis: Prevalence in Intensive Care Units and Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Nurses

Abstract

Background: Incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) is a major concern among hospitals, especially in intensive care units (ICUs).

Purpose: To describe ICU nurses' knowledge, attitudes, and practices of IAD and to examine the relationships with IAD prevalence in the ICU setting.

Methods: A descriptive correlational design was used including the Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis Questionnaire and 1-month IAD prevalence data.

Results: The prevalence of IAD in ICUs was 6.89%. A positive correlation was found between IAD prevalence and nurses' IAD knowledge and attitudes. Nurses working in the ICU for more than 7 years, caring for patients at high risk for or having IAD, and thinking IAD-related nursing practices were sufficient had significantly higher IAD knowledge, attitudes, and practices.

Conclusions: Findings indicate that ICU nurses learned about IAD through clinical experience and have inadequate training on IAD. A standardized evidence-based care protocol for IAD should be developed.