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New ISTAP Resource: Made Easy – The Prevention and Management of Skin Tears in Aged Skin

  • Writer: ISTAP
    ISTAP
  • 5 days ago
  • 2 min read

The International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP) is proud to announce the launch of a new resource: Made Easy: The Prevention and Management of Skin Tears in Aged Skin.


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Skin tears are painful, often preventable wounds that can significantly impact quality of life, particularly among older adults and individuals with compromised skin integrity. With a rising global aging population, consistent and evidence-based tools to support frontline clinicians have never been more essential.


The Made Easy document is designed to help healthcare professionals better understand the latest clinical guidance, with key takeaways on:

  • Updated definitions of skin tears

  • Skin tear risk factors and prevention strategies

  • Assessment and classification tools

  • Skin care recommendations for fragile and aged skin

  • Appropriate wound management practices


This resource was developed by a team of international experts and ISTAP leaders:

  • Professor Karen Ousey, PhD, MA, PGDE, RN – President, ISTAP

  • Dr. Emmy Nokaneng, BSc, BChD, PG Dip Odont, MChD – Secretary, ISTAP

  • Dr. Corey Heerschap, PhD, MScCH, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C), FNSWOC – President, Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC)

  • Debra Thayer, MS, RN, CWOCN


Download the Resource

The Made Easy is available in both print and web formats for your convenience:

  • Download Web Version (PDF):

  • Download Print Version (High-Resolution PDF):


Published on July 21, 2025, by Wounds International. Supported by Essity, Smith+Nephew, and Urgo Medical.


For more tools and evidence-based resources on skin tear prevention and care, visit our website at www.skintears.org or join ISTAP for free to access exclusive member content.


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© 2025 International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP™).

All Rights Reserved.

Corporate Partners

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In January 2016, ISTAP became an official interest group of Nurses Specialized in Wound, Ostomy and Continence Canada (NSWOCC).

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