Skin Integrity: Use of creams

Purpose: 

As part of the skin integrity policy, to ensure that creams are applied and used as instructed 

All staff will receive information and training during their induction on the correct use of creams and how to apply.

Procedure:

• As part of the preadmission phone call to discuss the guests care needs, skin integrity will be included in this call

• The guest/ carer will be asked what their usual routine for skin care is and this will be documented in triage and within the care plan on PCS.  This will include the use of any creams stating the name, frequency of application and amount to be used.
• G.P.s are sent a letter in advance before the holiday to request a list of prescription medication; which also includes prescription creams.
• On admission the nurse/SCA completing the guests admission procedure will discuss skin integrity with the guest +/or carer, again discussing their daily routine for skin care.
• It will be necessary to check that the information before admission is still relevant and correct, and any changes documented in the care plan.
• When guests’ belongings are being unpacked all creams will be taken to the registered nurses dealing with the medication to have a topical medication chart completed.
• The nurse will complete this chart and leave a copy in the guest’s drawer for staff to refer too whilst carrying out personal care. 
• It is the responsibility of the member of staff who is carrying out the guest’s personal care to ensure that the creams are applied as charted and to sign the administration sheet in the bedroom. 
• If the creams are not applied as charted the member off staff will document the reason in the comments section and also in the guests notes on PCS.
• This use of creams and any current issues with the guest’s skin integrity will also be documented in their personal notes on PCS. If for any reason creams are not able to be applied as charted, then the named nurse will then inform the carer at home as to reasons why.