Course Description
Pressure injuries (PIs) result from multiple factors, and early detection can be especially challenging in patients with dark skin tones. Visual cues are not always readily identified underscoring the need for improved skin assessment techniques, technologies, as well as more inclusive educational materials that represent all skin tones.
As the United States population becomes more ethnically and racially diverse, healthcare providers are expected—and required—to deliver culturally competent care that meets the needs of all patients and residents.
Preventing and treating skin breakdown and PIs starts with a comprehensive risk and skin assessment. However, nursing shortages and high turnover rates can make it challenging to consistently follow skin assessment best practices.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of the course, the learner will be able to:
- Recognize the importance of comprehensive skin assessments for diverse skin tones.
- Explain the goals and challenges of conducting skin assessments.
- Identify clinical best practices for skin assessments.
- Describe tools to confidently assess all skin tones.
Intended Audience
This educational activity was developed for nurses.
CE Information
This course is approved for 1.0 contact hours by the Florida and California State Boards of Nursing.
Course Authors
This course was written by Katie James, BA, RN, CWCN, and Krista Horwath, DNP, MS, RN, CWCN; and edited by Brenda Kozak, DNP, MSN-Ed, RN, CNE.
Katie is a certified wound care nurse with over 30 years of experience, including 18 years in WOC care. She was recognized as a Skin Health Clinical Specialist in 2020 and 2021.
Krista is a Medical Science Liaison and certified wound care nurse with over 25 years of experience in community health, leadership, and health education. She holds a Master of Science in Health Education and a Doctorate in Nursing Practice.
Brenda is a certified nurse educator with over 25 years of clinical experience. She earned her Doctorate in Nursing Practice and a Master of Science in Nursing focusing on education.