Tessa Quinn
Medical tape is a common tool used in hospitals to secure wound dressings and medical devices. While medical tape is designed to be skin-safe and easy to use, it can sometimes cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, known as tape burns. In some cases, the improper use of medical tape or the use of contaminated tape can lead to infections or other complications. As such, it is important to select the appropriate type of medical tape for the patient's skin type and to follow guidelines for its proper use and disposal to minimize the risk of tape burns and other adverse events. This raises the question: is the hospital liable for tape burns, and what are the best practices to prevent them?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Medical tapes | Paper medical tape, Cloth medical tape, PE transparent medical tape, Zinc tape |
| Use of medical tapes | Used to secure wound fascia or other first aid or medical devices |
| Medical tapes and skin irritation | Medical tapes can cause skin irritation and skin reactions |
| Preventing skin irritation | Perform a skin test on a small piece of skin before applying to a larger area, use a degumming agent to remove adhesive from the skin |
| Medical tapes and infections | Adhesive tape may transmit pathogenic bacteria that contribute to infections |
| Preventing infections | National guidelines to reduce the risk of cross-contamination from medical tapes, use latex-free, non-reactive tape on the gauze |
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What You'll Learn
Hospitals' liability for tape burns
Medical tape is a specially designed tape that can be used on the skin to secure wound dressings or other first aid or medical devices. Medical tape must be skin-safe, easy to use, and strong enough to allow the skin to move, bend, or get wet. There are three main types of medical tape: paper, cloth, and PE transparent. Transparent tape is the best option if you need to visually monitor the wound, and it is also a good choice for pain and discomfort. Cloth tape is a good option for comfort and ventilation, but it does not stick to skin or hair as tightly as paper tape. Paper tape provides ample protection of the wound site when there is a risk of infection, and it is soft enough to minimise pain and discomfort when changing it.
Medical tape should not interfere with wound healing or cause epidermal layer separation. It is important to investigate the wound site to determine the proper positioning of the tape. It should not be applied directly over hair and sebaceous glands, and one should always keep an eye on potential problems with friction, tension, and flexion.
Despite the benefits of medical tape, its use can cause skin irritation and even burns. In some cases, medical tape can be difficult to remove from the skin, and it may leave a residue that can be irritating or uncomfortable. To avoid this, it is recommended to use a degumming agent to remove the tape and any residue, rather than rubbing alcohol, which can dry out the skin. In some cases, medical tape can cause more severe allergic reactions, which may require over-the-counter antihistamines or corticosteroid creams.
While there is limited information specifically regarding hospital liability for tape burns, it is important to note that healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are largely preventable, and hospitals have a responsibility to reduce and eliminate these infections. In the United States, the National Action Plan to Prevent Health Care-Associated Infections was established to address this issue. Additionally, an article in the American Journal of Infection Control highlighted the risk of contamination from adhesive tape in hospitals and the need for national guidelines to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
Therefore, while the specific liability of hospitals for tape burns may vary depending on local laws and regulations, hospitals have a general responsibility to prevent infections and minimise the risk of harm to patients, which includes the proper use of medical tape.
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Medical tape safety guidelines
Medical tape is an essential tool in healthcare settings, used to secure bandages, gauze, and other dressings to the skin around wounds. However, the absence of standardised guidelines for its storage and use has led to instances of contamination and infection. To ensure patient safety and reduce the risk of cross-contamination, it is crucial to follow these safety guidelines when using medical tape:
Choose the Right Type of Medical Tape
Different types of medical tape are designed for different purposes and skin types. For instance, cloth tape is suitable for minor abrasions but should not be used on serious wounds. Transparent tape is ideal for visually monitoring wounds and provides breathability and gentle adhesion. Paper tape is highly adhesive yet soft, minimising pain and discomfort during changes. Micropore paper tape is hypoallergenic and can be used long-term without causing skin irritation.
Assess the Wound Site
Before applying medical tape, thoroughly examine the wound site. Avoid placing tape directly over hair and sebaceous glands. Ensure that the tape does not interfere with wound healing or cause epidermal layer separation. Consider potential issues with friction, tension, and flexion.
Prevent Infection
Medical tape can transmit pathogenic bacteria, leading to healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). To minimise this risk, use single-use rolls of tape for each patient. Avoid sharing tape between patients or leaving opened rolls of tape in accessible areas. Contamination is more likely to occur when tape is used on multiple patients or handled frequently.
Store and Handle Tape Properly
Establish standardised guidelines for storing and handling medical tape to reduce the risk of contamination. Discarding the outer layer of partially used rolls may help reduce the presence of bacteria. Ensure that clinicians are aware of the risk of cross-contamination and follow protocols to prevent infection.
Monitor Patients for Adverse Reactions
While rare, some patients may experience non-allergic reactions to medical tapes. Stay vigilant for any signs of discomfort or irritation, and be prepared to remove or replace the tape if necessary.
By adhering to these safety guidelines, healthcare professionals can effectively utilise medical tape while minimising the risk of infection, cross-contamination, and adverse patient reactions.
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Proper wound care
Initial Wound Care
- Immediately after sustaining an injury, wash the wound thoroughly with clean water and mild soap to remove any dirt or debris.
- Apply gentle pressure to stop any bleeding.
- For burn wounds, including tape burns, it is crucial to run cool water over the affected area or apply a cool, wet cloth. This helps to stop the burning process and provide relief.
- If blisters form, avoid popping or draining them.
Bandaging and Dressings
- Apply a thin layer of bacitracin antibiotic ointment or white petroleum to the wound.
- Choose the appropriate medical tape for the wound. The three main types are paper medical tape, cloth medical tape, and PE transparent medical tape.
- When using medical tape, avoid applying it directly over hair and sebaceous glands. Ensure the tape doesn't interfere with wound healing or cause epidermal layer separation.
- For burn wounds, a simple gauze dressing impregnated with paraffin (Jelonet) is recommended. Cover the Jelonet with a gauze pad and several layers of absorbent cotton wool.
- Secure the dressing with adhesive tape (such as Elastoplast) to prevent slippage and shearing.
- For burns on the head, neck, or chest, consider using an elastic net dressing (Netelast) to secure the area comfortably.
- Avoid using wet dressings for burns, as they can cause heat loss.
- Do not use topical creams on burn wounds, as they may interfere with subsequent assessments of the burn.
Ongoing Wound Care
- Clean the wound area at least twice daily with soap and water.
- Reapply a new bandage and ointment after each cleaning until the wound is fully healed.
- Deep or gaping wounds may require stitches or further medical attention.
- Keep an eye out for signs of infection, such as redness, pain, or swelling, and seek medical care if needed.
Scar Management
- Scars are a natural part of the healing process, and proper wound care can help minimize their appearance.
- Once the wound has healed, apply sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to reduce discolouration and help the scar fade faster.
- For concerns about scarring, consult a dermatologist, a skin specialist who can provide advice and treatment options.
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Tape burn treatment
Tape burns are a common ailment experienced by patients who require bandages after surgery or other procedures. They occur when medical tape is applied or removed from the skin, causing serious skin irritation that can slow the overall healing process.
To treat tape burns, it is recommended to slowly and carefully remove the tape to avoid further damage to the skin. Then, gently wash the skin with warm, soapy water to remove excess adhesive, softly patting the skin dry afterward. A new bandage can then be applied using a different type of tape. Special tapes, such as Hy-Tape, can be used to secure bandages without causing skin irritation. This tape contains zinc oxide, a common ingredient in sunscreen, which helps to protect the skin. It is also flexible, making it easy to manoeuvre without cutting into the skin.
To avoid skin issues in the future, barrier wipes and sprays can be applied to the skin before using tape. It is important to only apply tape where necessary and to use tension-free tape that removes easily. Peeling back the tape should be avoided unless new bandages are required, and antihistamine medication can be considered to prevent allergic reactions.
For minor burns, it is recommended to cool the burn, provide pain relief, and cover the wound. Polyvinyl chloride film (cling film) is an ideal first aid cover, as it is sterile, pliable, non-adherent, and acts as a barrier. It is important to lay this on the wound rather than wrapping it, especially on limbs where swelling may occur. A gauze pad and several layers of absorbent cotton wool can also be applied, secured with adhesive tape to prevent slippage.
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Preventing infection
Medical tape burns are a common issue for patients who require bandages after surgery or other procedures. Tape burns occur when medical tape is applied or removed from the skin, causing skin irritation, bleeding, or rashes. The very young, elderly, and those with specific health conditions are the most susceptible to tape burns.
Healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are largely preventable. Working to reduce and eventually eliminate them will save lives and cut costs. These infections are linked to various risk factors, including indwelling medical devices, surgical procedures, injections, contamination of surfaces in the environment, and exposure to communicable diseases from other patients and healthcare professionals.
- Barrier wipes and sprays: Applying barrier wipes and sprays to the skin can create a protective layer that prevents contamination and infection. Allow them to dry properly before applying any tape or bandages.
- Tape contact: Only use tape where it is necessary for securing the dressing. Avoid unnecessary contact with the skin, and do not apply tape directly over hair and sebaceous glands.
- Tape type: Use tension-free tape that removes easily from the skin. Avoid tapes that stick too tightly to the skin, as they can cause friction and skin irritation. Transparent medical tape allows visual monitoring of the wound and is a good option for breathability and comfort.
- Anti-allergic measures: For patients with allergies, consider latex-free tape or special tapes designed for sensitive skin, such as Hy-Tape, which contains zinc oxide to protect the skin.
- Dressing application: Ensure that the dressing is fully covered with tape and not just the edges. Avoid stretching the skin when removing the backing paper. Warmth and gentle pressure improve adhesion, but avoid rubbing that can degrade the adhesive's effectiveness.
- Hand hygiene: Practicing proper hand hygiene before and after applying or removing tape can help reduce the risk of transmitting infectious agents to the patient's skin.
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Frequently asked questions
Tape burns are a form of skin irritation caused by the use of adhesive tapes, such as surgical or medical tape. They can occur when the tape is removed and can result in redness, blisters, and skin residue.
Hospitals can be held liable for tape burns if negligence or malpractice is involved. This could include the improper use of medical tape, failure to follow safety guidelines, or the use of contaminated tape, resulting in patient harm.
Minor tape burns can be treated by first removing the tape and then washing the affected area with mild soap and water to remove any adhesive residue. Keeping the area well-ventilated and covering it with sterile gauze can help prevent further irritation. For more severe reactions, over-the-counter antihistamines or corticosteroid creams may be necessary, and professional medical advice should be sought.
Tape burns can be prevented by choosing the appropriate medical tape for the patient's skin type and conducting a skin test on a small area before applying it to a larger area. Proper tape positioning is also crucial, avoiding direct application over hair and sebaceous glands. Additionally, following infection control practices can help prevent the risk of contamination associated with the use of adhesive tape in healthcare settings.
