Rebecca’s Care Routine

Melanie and Rebecca use emollients (Epaderm) to keep the skin as hydrated as possible and help make the skin feel more comfortable. On open and exuding wounds and blisters, they use an antimicrobial cream (Brulidene) which helps the wound to dry up and makes the wound heal more quickly and helps to prevent wounds from growing. Blisters in EI are not self-limiting, so if the skin continues to be exposed to any form of trauma (Heat, friction, moisture, or allergy), the blister will continue to increase in size.

They use antibiotic ointments to treat wounds when they start to show signs of infection such as looking red and inflamed, or yellow and crusty, or when there is visible pus. Melanie chooses to apply dressings to their blisters, and sometimes lance (To let the fluid out) their blisters with a sterile needle. This is because the fluid inside blisters cause a lot of pressure and intense pain, this is relieved through lancing.

During the school day, Rebecca needs to apply more emollient creams to maintain her comfort levels. She is goven access to the first aid room for this, so that she has a clean space and all-important privacy.

In summer, high heat and humidity can be particularly troublesome for those affected with EI. If the skin is particularly thick, it increases how hot you feel (It’s like wearing layers of clothes), but also the thick skin can block sweat from getting through the skin surface. It is very easy to suffer heat stroke with EI, and anyone affected by this must take extra care in hot weather. To manage this issue of ‘Heat intolerance’, Melanie and Rebecca use damp sports towels, gel cooling mats, fans, and drink plenty of water to try to stay as cool as possible. They also adapt their lifestyle to avoid the heat of the day, and ensure activities and chores are done at times of day when it is coolest.