NURSE-LED CONSULTATIONS OFFERED TO HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS WITH FACIAL REACTIONS FOLLOWING EXPOSURE TO FACIAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT.

This article describes an initiative involving consultations with dermatology nurse specialists. The consultations were offered to healthcare workers with adverse skin reactions related to facial masks during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of the project was to manage and reduce the number of facial skin reactions experienced by mask wearers. The objectives were to assess symptoms and uncover triggers; to educate the staff to understand the skin reactions better, and to provide information on management and prevention. Nearly half of the healthcare workers found that consultations helped prevent or manage their skin reaction, and a third were referred to a dermatologist. The recommendations provided for skin care included both general principles and individualised care plans or advice. It was anticipated this intervention would result in a reduction in the severity of the conditions and optimise appropriate access to treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]