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March 31, 2026
Carolyn Cumper
Incontinence Associated Dermatitis (IAD) Guide
Incontinence Associated Dermatitis, or IAD, is a condition that can arise when bodily fluids aggravate the skin. Risks of the condition can lead to severe discomfort and infection, but there are ways to spot immediate symptoms and to prevent and manage IAD from occurring further. Making adjustments to cleaning regimes and lifestyle choices, for example, are always recommended. A primary step in caring for IAD is being proactive and ensuring incontinence aids are used effectively, preventing bodily fluids from trapping up against the skin. In this guide, I’ll take you through the definition of IAD, what causes it and how it is diagnosed, potential complications, and what you can do to treat and prevent the condition from recurring. What Is Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis (IAD)? IAD is an inflammatory skin condition that is typically caused and aggravated by exposure to bodily fluids. While generally mild, failing to manage IAD can lead to further inflammation, severe irritation, and skin infections. It is so-called because it commonly affects incontinence sufferers who improperly manage their aids and skin hygiene. More than 7.2 million Australian residents are incontinent, with seven out of ten people being younger than 65. Therefore, IAD is a major health concern for around a quarter of the population. It is also suggested that around 20% of people experiencing incontinence may already be suffering from IAD, according to research undertaken in North America: “Nearly 1 in 5 incontinent patients had IAD documented. Incontinence-associated dermatitis prevalence in the entire patient population was 4.3% while incontinence prevalence was 18%. Of incontinent patients, prevalence of IAD ranged from 8.4% in long-term care facilities to 19% in acute care facilities.” Kayser et al. What Causes IAD and Its Risk Factors? IAD is typically caused by skin reacting to prolonged exposure to fecal or urinary moisture, with bacteria and ammonia in urine being the predominant causes of damage. Let’s break down IAD causes into primary triggers and exacerbating factors. Primary Causes IAD is usually caused when: Urine and/or faeces are left in contact with skin for prolonged periods High ammonia levels cause the skin’s pH level to rise and break down Older skin has an already elevated pH level, making it more susceptible to IAD Bacteria in fecal matter and urine break down cell proteins Crucially, the longer that bodily fluids are left to interact with the skin (i.e., going uncleaned or left moist), the greater the risk a person has of developing IAD, and the condition worsens. Key Risk Factors IAD can occur and worsen if someone: Is incontinent and fails to, or cannot, clean and dry themselves regularly Leaves incontinence aids unchanged for long periods Suffers from pre-existing skin conditions Regularly suffers from stomach illnesses or diarrhea Is taking prescripted medication such as diuretics Has skin folds or thinning skin Fits incontinence aids improperly, causing friction and skin damage Cannot move freely or has limited mobility Washes and dries themselves too abrasively Is nutritionally deficient due to poor diet and lifestyle habits Uses thick ointments or spreads creams too thickly on affected skin Does not have adequate caregiver support Having helped many people with incontinence during my career, I understand that the condition can be difficult to talk about. However, at the first signs of IAD, it is crucial to seek preventive treatment. Signs and Symptoms of IAD General signs and symptoms of IAD include skin reddening, tingling, and burning sensations, wet and discoloured skin, peeling, warmth, and general tenderness. IAD typically starts as skin reddening, though as it progresses, it may become discoloured, and while initially moist, it may become dry and start to peel. It is common to notice lesions, itching, and even pain to the touch. IAD can affect various areas of your skin, from groin and buttock areas to upper thighs, the perineum, folds in the labia, and the lower abdominal areas. In some cases, IAD may be mistaken for other skin conditions, such as psoriasis, heat rashes, and even pressure ulcers. In fact, pressure ulcers can also arise as a result of IAD going untreated. Complications and Outcomes of Untreated IAD If managed poorly or left untreated, IAD may lead to a greater risk of skin infections, causing patients’ illnesses to worsen. Sufferers may also find that they experience additional pain and discomfort, worsening for as long as the condition persists. Increased risk of infection can lead to additional illnesses and conditions developing, which in turn can lead to higher care costs and extended treatment. Persistent, untreated IAD can also harm sufferers’ quality of life, losing confidence in socialising, entering into relationships, and being intimate with partners. Pressure ulcers and bed sores, too, are painful and uncomfortable complications that can arise from untreated IAD, as are fungal conditions. How IAD Is Detected Healthcare professionals detect and diagnose IAD through careful examination of potentially affected skin, consultation of medical histories, and skin pH and microbial testing. Following a step-by-step procedure ensures that IAD is diagnosed effectively and not mistaken for similar conditions. Clinical Assessments Diagnosis and assessment of IAD typically begin with a general visual examination, where a doctor or physician may look for signs of skin reddening, moisture, or other symptoms as detailed earlier in this guide. From there, doctors will typically enquire about other conditions a patient may be experiencing and about their medication history. If they are concerned that IAD may be present, a skin pH test is usually recommended, followed by extra microbial tests should there be any underlying microorganisms. Differentiating IAD From Other Conditions (Differential Diagnosis) Given that IAD shares some symptoms with other skin conditions, doctors will carefully consider the possibility of other sources of irritation, particularly if incontinence and aids appear to be managed effectively. For example, pressure sores are commonly mistaken for IAD by the naked eye, and in my professional experience, it’s crucial to ensure which condition is present so that effective treatments can be sought. Indicators of pressure sores rather than IAD, for instance, include more defined rash edges, pain symptoms but little irritation, and evidence of skin loss (IAD does not always present with much loss of skin). Prevention Strategies of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis To prevent IAD, it’s important to practice daily skin care routines, carefully compare aid product choices, adjust lifestyle choices, and consult healthcare professionals if conditions worsen. Learning how to stop incontinence or at least manage the condition is a crucial part of recovering from IAD. Crucially, it’s just as important for incontinent people and caregivers to understand the long-term risks and prevention strategies associated with IAD, too. Recommended preventive strategies include: Adopting a daily skin care regimen, covering gentle cleaning, washing with a pH-balancing cleanser, and protecting with recommended ointments (used thinly) Carefully choosing well-fitting and comfortable incontinence aids, learning how to wear them properly, and changing or adjusting them as manufacturers (and doctors) recommend Choosing comfortable, non-restrictive clothing, and sensibly considering when clothing changes may be necessary when heading out in public Immediately cleaning and padding skin dry after episodes of incontinence, or as soon as possible if episodes occur during sleep Avoiding harsh or abrasive chemicals and fragrances around affected areas Using skin protectants and moisturisers as recommended by doctors Regularly consulting with doctors and care physicians if you are concerned about the condition, or if you ever need to know more about treatment and management from an unbiased source Treatment and Management of IAD In cases where IAD requires immediate treatment, I recommend carefully cleaning and padding dry affected skin and doing so as part of a regular regimen - after each incident of incontinence, for example. It is also wise to regularly use a moisturiser and skin barrier to aid healing, as directed by your doctor. Specialist intervention is recommended should IAD sores worsen, and if symptoms change or persist after following medical advice and changing lifestyle choices. This may typically be the case after two weeks, though your doctor may recommend a different timescale. Continence management in aged care or sensitive cases may mean timescales vary. Regardless, it’s very important to follow up with a doctor, whether you are experiencing the condition or are caring for someone with IAD, so they can tailor further treatment, recovery, and prevention. Crucially, effective long-term management of IAD revolves around choosing the right incontinence aids and learning how to use them, and asking for help from someone you trust. Final Thoughts Incontinence-associated dermatitis is an uncomfortable and sometimes painful condition that, with preventive care and gentle cleaning, can be easily managed over time. With millions of people across Australia experiencing incontinence, you don’t have to feel embarrassed about asking for help. Explore MedShop’s range of Abena incontinence products and aids to support healthier skin and help build confidence. Sources Cumper, S. (2024). How To Stop Incontinence: Solutions You Can Live With. In Medshop Australia. Medshop. https://www.medshop.com.au/blogs/news/how-to-stop-incontinence Cumper, S. (2025). Continence Management in Aged Care. In Medshop Australia. Medshop. https://www.medshop.com.au/blogs/news/continence-management-in-aged-care Kayser, S. A., Phipps, L., Catherine A VanGilder, & Lachenbruch, C. (2019). Examining Prevalence and Risk Factors of Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis Using the International Pressure Ulcer Prevalence Survey. In Journal of wound, ostomy, and continence nursing : official publication of The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (Vol. 46, Number 4, pp. 285–290). Journal of wound, ostomy, and continence nursing : official publication of The Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society. https://doi.org/10.1097/WON.0000000000000548 Key statistics on incontinence. (n.d.). In Continence Health Australia (formerly the Continence Foundation of Australia). Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://www.continence.org.au/about-us/our-work/key-statistics-incontinence Shop Abena Incontinence Products. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://www.medshop.com.au/collections/abena-incontinence
March 31, 2026
Carolyn Cumper
How to Choose Scrubs for Different Medical Roles
Choosing the right healthcare scrubs improves hygiene, boosts comfort, and gives a more professional appearance. You’ll need to think about functional features and design elements, which types are best for your specific role, the best scrub brands, and how to care for them long-term. Having spent many long shifts myself on wards and clinics, I personally know the benefits of wearing a well-fitting, comfortable, professional scrub top and pants. Finding the right fit for you may take time, but it’s important to find a look and feel that keeps you flexible, mobile, and clearly identifiable! In this guide, I’ll take you through why making the right choice matters when searching for the best nursing scrubs, features to look for, care tips, and why different roles require different looks and fits. Why Choosing the Right Scrubs Matters Well-designed and manufactured scrubs are easy to clean and stain-resistant, offer practical functionalities such as pockets and clips, and remain comfortable for you to move around in during long working shifts. What’s more, the right scrubs ensure you are easy to identify and always look professional while working. Choosing any set of scrubs at random, or purely choosing the cheapest options, means risking discomfort, poor longevity, a lack of useful features, and easy staining. In different medical roles and situations, too, it’s vital to choose scrubs that can clearly identify your department and that give you the flexibility and functionality you need. For example, the scrubs I’ve worn over the years on wards will be slightly different from those worn by veterinarians! It’s also important to keep your patients’ needs and expectations in mind, too. In fact, studies show that healthcare uniforms are extremely important when it comes to professionalism expectations: “Based on (BMJ) findings, (researchers) call for more hospitals, health systems and practice groups to look at their dress standards for physicians, or create them if they don’t already have one. Just over half of the 4,062 patients surveyed in the clinics and hospitals of ten major medical centers said that what physicians wear is important to them – and more than one-third said that what a doctor wears influences their satisfaction with their care.” Institute for Healthcare Policy & Innovation, quoting the BMJ Functional Features and Design Elements for Choosing Scrubs Instead of choosing the first scrubs you find, prioritise comparing elements such as fabric types, fit and mobility, durability, functional design, colour coding, and sustainability. Let’s break these must-haves down into a little more detail: Fabric Types and Comfort: Consider how flexible you’ll need to be at work. Cotton, for example, is super-breathable and very easy to clean, while polyester is more durable and moisture-resistant. Consider blends for the best of both worlds. Fit and Mobility: Sizing too low or too high can lead to pinching or flowing outfits that reduce flexibility. Be sure to measure yourself carefully and to consult sizing charts for scrubs that are flattering but practical. Durability and Stain Resistance: A fact of the job is that you will come into contact with a variety of fluids, and you need to keep your uniform looking clean, cared-for, and hygienic. Choose outfits and materials that resist staining. Functional Design: Consider how many pockets and loops you typically need when on shift! Some healthcare scrubs have multiple in chest and pant areas for ease of access. Colour Coding: Depending on your workplace, prioritise scrubs that colour-code to your role and department so other personnel and patients can easily identify you. Sustainability: If reducing carbon is a priority for you, choose more sustainable scrub options such as those made from bamboo. Types of Scrubs by Profession Scrub styles, manufacturing, colours, and materials can vary depending on the role. For example, there are key differences between nursing scrubs and those designed for dentists, veterinarians, and specialists. Scrubs for Nurses The best scrubs for nurses are designed to maximise comfort and movement during busy working shifts. They typically include handy features such as pockets and drawstrings, with the goal of providing as much support as possible as professionals move from one area to another. Nurses should typically prioritise moisture-wicking uniforms, too. Scrubs for Dental Professionals Dental scrubs tend to be very lightweight, again, for ease of movement, particularly during sensitive procedures. These scrubs are also typically designed with a focus on hygiene protection and stain resistance, and with chest pockets for ease of storage. Scrubs for Veterinary Professionals Given that veterinarians work with animals, they need specialist vet scrubs that are both hygienic and extremely durable, i.e., resistant against tearing and scratching, and easy to deep clean from odourous messes. Scrubs for Physicians and Specialists Physicians, specialists, and surgeons usually wear professional-looking scrubs that are both hygienic and offer layers of protection. For the best scrubs for doctors in surgery, in particular, antimicrobial, easy-clean material is a must, where dangerous bacteria and bodily fluids are in regular contact. Care and Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Scrubs Even the best scrubs need careful washing, stain removal, drying, and storage to ensure that they are clean, hygienic, and free from wrinkles and creasing, always looking professional and comfortable to wear. Here are a few ideas I’ve used over the years to keep my own scrubs looking and feeling great during long shifts. Proper Washing and Drying to Preserve Fabric Ideally, you should always follow the laundry instructions on your scrubs’ labels before putting them into a washing machine. I personally recommend pre-treating scrubs in cold water with half a cup of white vinegar, ensuring they are inside out, before washing them via machine. You’re then usually safe to place scrubs in a tumble dryer for no more than 30 minutes, but air drying, then ironing, helps to keep them looking great and lasting longer. Stain Removal for Blood, Medications, and Other Spills For blood stains, I recommend using cold water to avoid staining setting in deeper, and to try to treat them as soon as possible. Avoid using bleaches or chemicals unless your scrubs are lighter coloured. Other bodily fluids will usually require the same cold soak, followed by heavy-duty washing detergent and following the label. For ointments and medication spills, I recommend hot water, applying detergent, then machine washing. Always avoid rubbing! Storage to Prevent Wrinkles and Wear The number one tip to keep scrubs looking great in storage is to hang them, rather than fold them. Consider rolling them up if you have to, but do so around cardboard tubes. Popular Scrub Brands and Industry-Specific Recommendations Cherokee and Dickies are the two most popular and reliable manufacturers of healthcare scrubs for nursing, dentistry, and surgical operations. Both have a range of specific lines designed to keep healthcare professionals safe and comfortable. Brands for Nursing Environments For nurses, I highly recommend Cherokee Flexibles, specialising in a wide variety of V-neck tops, drawstring pants, and maternity clothing for nurses who need to keep comfortable and flexible on the go. You’ll find multiple choices in this collection offering easy-reach slash pockets, elasticated comfort, and comfy cotton/polyester blending. Brands for Dental Practices The Dickies Dynamix range is simple and effective for dental practice wear, offering a variety of professional colours, moisture-wicking, and four-way stretch options. Patch pockets prove highly useful during practice, and these lightweight scrubs are specifically designed to reduce wrinkling, thanks to polyester blends. Brands for Surgical and Operating Room Settings For operating rooms, I recommend large, disposable, fluid-resistant scrub tops from MedCon, which remove the need to worry about getting outfits clean and hygienic again for the next day. Cherokee’s Workwear collection, too, which includes v-neck tops with panels, also offers simple comfort and easy care for high-pressure medical roles. Where to Source Quality Scrubs The best places to find high-quality scrubs are online medical uniform retailers, brick-and-mortar shops, and customization and team orders through specific suppliers. To get the best value on sourcing quality healthcare scrubs (regardless of your role), I suggest prioritising stores that offer customisation and tailoring to your specific needs and shape. You’ll also find that ordering in bulk can cut costs down if you frequently find you need to replace your uniforms. Above all, register as a customer at a medical uniform retailer online, and you’ll have access to the latest sales and discounts on specific scrubs lines as they become available. Final Thoughts Finding the right scrubs for your specific healthcare role is important so you can stay flexible, hygienic, and always look your best. It’s easy to assume that one brand or look of scrubs will cover all your needs - this is never the case! Be sure to explore MedShop’s catalogue of looks, styles, and fits to find tops and pants that keep you comfortable and protected for hours at a time. Sources Best Scrubs for Doctors. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://www.medshop.com.au/blogs/news/best-scrubs-for-doctors Cherokee Workwear WW645 Scrubs Top Womens V-Neck Black. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/cherokee-scrubs-workwear-ww645-ww-top-contemporary-black Dynamix Scrubs V-Neck Top DK730. (n.d.) In Medshop Australia. Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/dynamix-scrubs-v-neck-top Flexibles Scrubs. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://www.medshop.com.au/collections/flexibles-scrubs Nursing Scrubs Australia - Professional Scrubs. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://www.medshop.com.au/collections/nursing-scrubs-uniforms Scrub Tops Fluid Resistant Large Disposable. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://www.medshop.com.au/products/scrub-tops-fluid-resistant-large-disposable Veterinary Scrubs: Perfect Blend of Comfort & Function. (n.d.). In Medshop Australia. Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://www.medshop.com.au/collections/vet-scrubs What doctors wear really does matter, study finds. (n.d.). In ihpi.umich.edu. Retrieved February 19, 2026, from https://ihpi.umich.edu/news/what-doctors-wear-really-does-matter-study-finds
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