Medical Device-Related Pressure Injury to the Ear from a Mask

Mask wearing is now ubiquitous because of the COVID-19 pandemic and has given rise to medical device-related pressure injuries in persons at risk of skin breakdown. The ear has unique anatomy that is particularly susceptible to injury from pressure. In this time of mandatory personal protective equi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:	Advances in skin & wound care Vol. 34; no. 7; pp. 380 - 383
Main Authors:	Levine, Jeffrey M., Ayello, Elizabeth A., Persaud, Balwant, Spinner, Ruth
Format:	Journal Article
Language:	English
Published:	United States Lippincott Williams & Wilkins 01-07-2021 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins Ovid Technologies
Subjects:	Adult Case reports COVID-19 - epidemiology COVID-19 - prevention & control Ear, External - injuries Ears & hearing Humans Masks Masks - adverse effects Medical equipment Occupational Injuries - etiology Personal Protective Equipment - adverse effects Pressure Ulcer Pressure ulcers Risk Factors Wound healing
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Summary:	Mask wearing is now ubiquitous because of the COVID-19 pandemic and has given rise to medical device-related pressure injuries in persons at risk of skin breakdown. The ear has unique anatomy that is particularly susceptible to injury from pressure. In this time of mandatory personal protective equipment requirements in healthcare facilities, protection and assessment of skin in the vulnerable postauricular area are needed. This article presents a case report of a pressure injury on the ear, reviews the anatomy of the ear, and provides strategies for assessment and treatment of pressure injuries in this often overlooked anatomic region.
ISSN:	1527-7941 1538-8654
DOI:	10.1097/01.ASW.0000752712.31139.c0