The Wound, Ostomy, and Continence Nurses Society™ (WOCN®), announced a new partnership with the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP). The two organizations are collaborating to raise awareness about the prevention and management of skin tears and skin breakdown, and the value that each organization brings to the global healthcare setting.
Skin tears affect all ages and continue to be a common problem in all health care settings. Skin tears are often painful, acute wounds resulting from trauma to the skin, and are largely preventable. A common cause of skin tears is Medical Adhesive Related Skin Injury (MARSI) therefore careful dressing selection is paramount.
ISTAP was formed to raise international awareness of the prediction, assessment, prevention, and management of skin tears. The ISTAP comprises a panel of multidisciplinary healthcare professionals representing Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, Middle East, North America and South America.
“We are proud to partner with ISTAP to bring valuable education and awareness to our members and the greater healthcare community,” said Dea Kent, President of WOCN. “The mission, vision, and values of ISTAP are aligned with those of WOCN and I look forward to positioning our two organizations to improve global health system performance and skin tear patient outcomes in prevention and management.”
“ISTAP are delighted to be partnering with the WOCN to raise awareness of the prevention, assessment and management of skin tears,” said Samantha Holloway, President of ISTAP. “Skin tears affect the most vulnerable of populations yet they are largely preventable with appropriate and timely interventions. Working with WOCN will help to fulfil ISTAPs mission of a World Without Skin Tears.”