EFFECTIVENESS OF PERSONAL HYGIENE AND PETROLEUM JELLY (VASELINE) THERAPY ON THE SEVERITY OF DERMATITIS SCALE IN THE ELDERLY AT UPTD GRIYA WREDA JAMBANGAN

Abstract

Introduction

In the elderly, dermatitis often occurs due to internal factors such as physiological changes in the skin due to aging, as well as external factors such as the environment and personal hygiene. Personal hygiene that is not optimal can cause the accumulation of dirt, sweat, and microorganisms on the surface of the skin that can potentially trigger irritation and infection. The administration of petroleum jelly is an occlusive agent that works by forming a protective layer on the surface of the skin so that it can reduce fluid loss, maintain moisture, and protect the skin from irritation that can help accelerate the recovery of skin integrity in the elderly.

Method

The provision of nursing care uses a single case study design with the SDKI, SLKI, and SIKI approaches. The subject in this case study is a 66-year-old patient, Mrs. S, diagnosed with atopic dermatitis with a nursing problem of impaired skin integrity. Petroleum jelly was administered for 4 days combined with improved personal hygiene.

Result

Mrs. S, a 66-year-old patient diagnosed with atopic dermatitis, received skin integrity care consisting of 2-3 applications of petroleum jelly combined with personal hygiene care. After 4 days of intervention, there was improvement in skin condition, characterized by increased skin moisture, reduced lesions and scratch marks, decreased redness, smoother skin texture, and reduced pruritus.

Conclusion

The administration of petroleum jelly and improved personal hygiene can be done to reduce the symptoms of atopic dermatitis sufferers. The abnormal pigmentation value has not been resolved, as pigmentation is caused by increased melanin production, while petroleum jelly cannot inhibit melanin production.