Establishing vascular access and preventing infection, both at insertion and during ongoing care is generally the top priority; the maintenance of optimal skin integrity is often a distant secondary consideration. Skin can react to different types of dressings or adhesives, or problems can arise relating to the securement of lines or the development of sensitivities to cleaning solutions. This article discusses these kinds of skin injuries with reference to real case studies.

Jan Hitchcock - General Manager Infection Prevention & Control Directorate, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London

Louise Savine - Tissue Viability Lead Nurse, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London