What is tissue viability?

Tissue viability is a complex section or field in the healthcare environment which focuses on the health and integrity of the skin and underlying tissues. Primarily the focus of tissue viability is the prevention and treatment of wounds, which includes acute surgical wounds, pressure ulcers, leg ulcers and any other type of chronic wounds.

What are the risk factors that can lead to compromised tissue viability?

There are several risk factors that can contribute to compromised tissue viability, increasing the risk of developing wounds, particularly pressure ulcers. Recognizing these risk factors is essential in healthcare to prevent and manage tissue damage. Here are common risk factors:

• Immobility or limited mobility: individuals who are bedridden, wheelchair bound or have limited ability to change positions are at higher risk developing pressure ulcers.
• Poor nutrition: inadequate intake of essential nutrients such as protein, vitamins and minerals, can impair tissue healing and increase the risk of developing wounds.
• Age-related factors: older adults may have reduced skin elasticity, impaired circulation and decreased sensory perception, making them more susceptible to tissue damage.
• Incontinence: prolonged exposure to moisture from urine or faeces can lead to skin breakdown and increase the risk of developing pressure ulcers.
• Chronic illnesses: certain medical conditions such as diabetes, peripheral vascular disease or spinal cord injuries, can impair blood flow, sensation or the body’s ability to heal.
• Mental status: individuals with cognitive impairment or neurological conditions that affect their ability to communicate or follow instructions may be at higher risk of developing wounds.
• Obesity: excess body weight can put increased pressure on specific areas of the body, which leads to tissue damage.
• Medications: certain medications, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, can affect tissue healing and increase the risk of developing wounds.
• Smoking: smoking tobacco can impair circulation and reduce oxygen supply to tissues, affecting tissue viability and wound healing.

What are the functions of the skin?

Understanding the structure and functions of the skin is crucial for maintaining its health, preventing and maintaining various skin conditions and promoting overall well-being; below are some functions of the skin:

1. Protection: the skin acts as a physical barrier, protecting the body from external factors such as pathogens, UV radiation and chemicals. It also helps prevent excessive water loss and maintains the body’s internal environment.
2. Sensation: the skin contains numerous sensory receptors that allow us to perceive touch, pressure, pain, temperature and vibration. These receptors provide important information about our surroundings and help us respond to stimuli.
3. Thermoregulation: the skin plays a vital role in regulating body temperature. Blood vessels in the skin can dilate or constrict, allowing heat exchange with the environment. Sweating helps cool the body through evaporation.
4. Excretion: small amounts of waste products, such as water, salts and urea, are excreted through sweat glands in the skin.
5. Vitamin D synthesis: the skin produces vitamin D when exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D is essential for bone health and plays a role in the immune system.

Just a note:

Doing an online Tissue Viability Training Course with Train Healthcare, which takes approximately 1 hour to complete, will earn you 1 CPD Point. Once you have completed the course, you would receive a certificate thereof.