Pure Hypochlorous Preserved Wound Cleanser* in the Management oF Wound/skin Conditions Associated with Moisture Associated Skin Damage

Introduction: We report our experience with HAPWOC in a 454-bed metropolitan Level I Trauma Center in the Midwestern United States. Adopted by the Certified Wound Ostomy & Continence Nurse(CWOCN) services for all skin interruptions. Subjects, 18 years or older, presented with pressure injuries/trauma/lacerations/surgical and dermatological conditions. HAPWOC is supported by evidenced-based practice. Considered gentle, safe, and effective on variety of wounds. Has documented ability to remove microbes, associated biofilm, and debris.

Background and methods: May and June 2021observed the extent of use on patients with moisture associated skin damage(MASD). MASD can cause full thickness wounds. For MASD, our practice has been to apply HAPWOC moistened gauze on the affected area, soaking briefly, then wiping away debris. HAPWOC is applied during MASD episodes within the multiple folds and creases of the abdomen, pannus, bilateral groin, bilateral axilla. Prior to this observational study, Product provided to the RN for general use via hospital material supply. A change from CWOCN only access and consistent to standardize on most wounds and damaged skin conditions.

RESULTS: May through June 2021, 146 patients received (including MASD) dedicated HAPWOC care. 22 patients suffered dermatological conditions such as intertrigo, a common variety of MASD in our hospital. Standardized use with MASD patients allowed the skin to return to healthy status as evidenced by the 3 cases presented. MASD related breached skin or wounds remained moist and non-malodorous. During this period, MASD/intertrigo treated without use of an anti-fungal agent (powder or cream) demonstrated a positive improvement or resolution. At discharge HAPWOC was suggested until resolution.

CONCLUSION: Healing of MASD/Intertrigo is complex and slow process. Wounds/damaged skin require considerable hydration, nutrition, creation of a microclimate, protection, and pH balance. Short stay hospitalization is the norm of an acute-care hospital. This limits assessment of wound resolution to closure. Use for skin conditions such as MASD is one way to leverage the chemistry based benefits of HAPWOC. Our patients benefit wound/skin healing through debris removal, thwarting bacteria colonization and fungal involvement. Use demonstrated no complications and the cases presented are typical of the improvement of MASD that we see in real life.