Module 1: Introduction to Skin Integrity

• Definition and structure of healthy skin

• Skin’s role in protecting against infection, dehydration, and temperature regulation

• Common skin conditions affecting integrity: dryness, irritation, infections

• Importance of skin care in healthcare settings

• Impact of compromised skin integrity on recovery and quality of life

• Role of skin assessments in preventing complications

Module 2: Understanding Pressure Ulcers (Bed Sores)

• Definition of pressure ulcers

• Causes: pressure, shear, friction, moisture

• Stages of pressure ulcers:
  Stage 1: Non-blanchable erythema of intact skin
  Stage 2: Partial-thickness loss of dermis
  Stage 3: Full-thickness skin loss
  Stage 4: Full-thickness tissue loss with exposed bone, muscle, or tendon
  Unstageable and deep tissue pressure injury

• Importance of early detection and prevention

Module 3: Risk Factors for Developing Pressure Ulcers

• Identifying high-risk patients: immobility, incontinence, poor nutrition, age

• Medical conditions affecting skin integrity: diabetes, vascular disease, spinal cord injury

• Impact of cognitive impairments (e.g., dementia) on self-care and prevention

• Risk assessment tools:
  Braden Scale
  Waterlow Scale

• Incorporating risk assessments into routine care planning

Module 4: Prevention of Pressure Ulcers

• Repositioning and mobility:
  Techniques to reduce pressure
  Frequent turning (e.g., every 2 hours for bed-bound patients)

• Use of specialized mattresses, cushions, and support surfaces

• Nutrition and hydration:
  Role of protein, vitamins, hydration in skin health
  Identifying malnutrition as a risk factor

• Moisture management:
  Keeping skin dry
  Preventing incontinence-associated dermatitis
  Use of moisture barriers and skin cleansers

• Education and training for patients, caregivers, and staff

Module 5: Skin Assessment and Early Detection of Pressure Ulcers

• Conducting thorough skin inspections focusing on vulnerable areas (heels, sacrum, elbows)

• Identifying early signs: redness, warmth, changes in skin texture

• Documenting skin assessments and tracking changes over time

• Tools for monitoring skin integrity (digital and manual)

• Importance of regular reassessment and proactive intervention

• Preventing progression of Stage 1 ulcers through early intervention

Module 6: Managing Pressure Ulcers

• Basics of wound healing stages: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, maturation

• Cleaning and dressing pressure ulcers: best practices

• Selecting appropriate dressings based on stage and location

• Advanced treatments:
  Hydrocolloids, alginates, foam dressings
  Debridement methods: mechanical, autolytic, enzymatic, surgical
  Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT)

• Infection control:
  Recognizing and managing infected ulcers
  Antibiotics and antiseptics use
  Preventing cross-contamination

Module 7: Multidisciplinary Approach to Pressure Ulcer Care

• Team-based care: collaboration with nurses, dietitians, physiotherapists, wound care specialists

• Communication with patients and families

• Creating individualized care plans tailored to patient needs and risk factors

• Role of care plans in improving outcomes and tracking progress

• Best practices for documentation and reporting changes in skin integrity

Module 8: Post-Pressure Ulcer Recovery and Rehabilitation

• Post-treatment skin integrity monitoring

• Managing psychological and physical impacts of pressure ulcers

• Preventing recurrence after healing

• Lifestyle changes and ongoing education

• Role of physical therapy and mobility training in maintaining skin health

Module 9: Case Studies and Best Practices

• Real-life case studies:
  Identifying successful prevention and treatment strategies
  Discussing challenges and solutions for complex cases

• Key lessons from effective interventions

• Continuous improvement strategies to reduce incidence in healthcare