Skin tears are a significant problem for patients and the nurses who treat them. Estimates of their prevalence differs around the world, but there is strong evidence to suggest that they occur more frequently than pressure ulcers. In the past few years there has been an increased focus and research into skin tears, and the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel has developed internationally recognised best practice recommendations in this important field for the global wound care community. This article will review the most current research and best practice recommendations for the prediction, prevention, assessment and treatment of skin tears.

Karen E Campbell - Adjunct Professor, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada

Sharon Baronoski - Nurse Consultant, Private Practice, Shorewood, Illinois, US

Mary Gloeckner - Nurse, UnityPoint Trinity, Rock Illand, Illinois, US

Samantha Holloway - Reader, Centre for Medical Education, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Wales UK

Patricia Idensohn - Nurse Consultant, Private Practice, CliniCare, Ballito, KwaZulu Natal, South Africa

Diane Langemo - Principle, Langemo & Associates, Adjunct Faculty, University of North Dakota, Grand Fork, ND, USA

Kimberly LeBlanc - Chair, Wound Ostomy Continence Institute / Institut de l'Enseignement Pour Infirmières en Plaies, Stomies et Continence. Association of Nurses Specialised in Wound Ostomy Continence, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada