GAMA launches campaign to improve incontinence awareness

Monday, 19 June, 2023

GAMA Healthcare has launched a campaign to raise awareness about incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD) during World Continence Week.

The 'Make a Difference' campaign aims to improve the lives of those affected by IAD and promote optimal management practices.

IAD is a condition that can occur due to urinary or faecal incontinence. This painful skin problem occurs when there is prolonged exposure to urine or faecal matter, which causes the skin to become irritated and inflamed, consequently breaking the skin's integrity. People who suffer from IAD have increased risk of infections and pressure injuries.^1-6

As part of the campaign, GAMA Healthcare will share informative awareness posters, an IAD care pack and educational tips on LinkedIn. These resources enable healthcare professionals to stay informed about the latest advancements in IAD management, engage in discussions and implement effective strategies in their practice.

Join the company's webinar on 20 June at 7pm (AEST) — Derrière Care: Exploring the Fundamentals of IAD Care Across Healthcare Settings. The webinar will feature Dr Michelle Gibb, an esteemed expert in nursing and wound care. Gibb will delve into crucial topics such as preserving dignity, burden management, time management strategies and innovative solutions to prevent and treat IAD. Attendees will have the opportunity to gain insights and participate in a Q&A session.

Suzie Hammouche, CEO of GAMA Healthcare Australia, said, "We are excited to launch this campaign to raise awareness of incontinence associated dermatitis and empower healthcare professionals and caregivers with valuable resources. By coming together, we can make a difference in IAD management and improve the lives of those affected."

^{1. GAMA Beeckman D, Campbell J, Campbell K, Chimentao D, Coyer F, Domansky R, et al. Proceedings of the Global IAD Expert Panel: Incontinence-associated dermatitis: Moving Prevention Forward [Internet]. London: Wounds International; 2015 [cited 2022 Apr 1] p. 1–20. Available from: https://www.woundsinternational.com/download/resource/6006

2. Kayser SA, Phipps L, VanGilder CA, Lachenbruch C. Examining Prevalence and Risk Factors of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis Using the International Pressure Ulcer Prevalence Survey. Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing. 2019;46(4):285–90.

3. Gray M, Beeckman D, Bliss DZ, Fader M, Logan S, Junkin J, et al. Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis. Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence

4. Nursing [Internet]. 2012;39(1):61–74. Available from: https://journals.lww.com/jwocnonline/Abstract/2012/01000/Incontinence_Associated_Dermatitis__A.10.aspx

5. Clinical Excellence Commission. Incontinence Associated Dermatitis (IAD) Best Practice

6. Principles [Internet]. 2021 Jul [cited 2022 Jul 13] p. 3–30. Available from: https://www.cec.health.nsw.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0015/424401/Incontinence-Associated-Dermatitis-IAD-Best-Practice-Principles.pdf}

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