What is a skin tear?
A skin tear occurs when the epidermis (top layer) of the skin becomes separated from the underlying layer (dermis). Skin can become very fragile with age. Even the simplest movement, bump or knock can cause damage. Skin tears often occur in people who are dependent on others for showering, dressing, and transferring. The use of lifting equipment and assistive devices increases the risk of skin tears. People with confusion, poor vision and problems wandering can often bump into furniture or not recognise hazardous objects. Skin tears will often be sustained on the arms, lower legs or hands. Complications from skin tears include infection. See your doctor or community nurse if skin shows any signs of inflammation or the skin appears painful, swollen and hot to touch.
