Aderma™ (Smith and Nephew) Dermal Pads are designed to help prevent skin damage through the redistribution of pressure. This evaluation examined one type, Aderma Heel Pads, on the prevention of pressure ulceration and the reversal of existing skin damage in a nursing home population. Skin status was monitored visually by nurses, as well as through the use of quantitative grading scales and ultrasound scanning. The results show that Aderma helped to reduce erythema and prevent progression of skin damage. Ultrasound findings suggest that Aderma returned skin to a ‘normal’ status, when compared with unaffected surrounding skin. Carers and residents reported no adverse reactions to Aderma and it was generally found to be an intuitive, easy-touse product. On the basis of these findings, Aderma Dermal Pads are considered to be a valuable technology in the prevention of pressure ulcers in nursing homes.
