Prevention of nappy rash
Parents should practise good skincare regimes based
on sound empirical research, as this is essential
in keeping neonatal skin healthy and preventing
pathogens from entering the body. Nappies should
be changed several times a day, especially after
bowel movement and at least once during the night
to avoid prolonged contact with urine or faeces,
and the use of gel-filled disposable nappies is
recommended as more effective at keeping a baby’s
skin dry (Baer et al, 2007).
The application of a barrier preparation at nappy
changes can also help to reduce the effects of
friction and avoid contact with urine or faeces.
Barrier ointments are generally more effective than
creams or lotions as they provide a more effective
barrier. The ointments should be fragrance and
preservative free and contain a zinc oxide or soft
paraffin base (Jackson, 2008). It should also be
clinically proven to be effective in babies and mimic
the skin’s natural function by forming a longlasting
barrier to maintain optimum moisture
levels. The barrier ointment should not contain
any unnecessary ingredients, including antiseptics,
preservatives or perfume (Atherton and Mills, 2004)