Diaper Rash – What to Do? A Nurse’s Guide to Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis
November 03, 2026

Diaper Rash – What to Do? A Nurse’s Guide to Incontinence-Associated Dermatitis

Kim Hoggard, RN, NSWOC, WOCC(C)
Nurse Specialized in Wound, Ostomy & Continence Care, Founder of NurseCraft

If you are a parent or caregiver, chances are you have encountered diaper rash. It starts by peeling back the diaper to reveal a flaming red bum. You then discover the skin is VERY sore to the touch as you try to clean everything up. More formally known as incontinence-associated dermatitis (IAD), this inflamed skin can make even the kindest person grumpy.

The good news is IAD is very treatable. Most cases are caught early and cared for at home. Where people can get lost is figuring out why the rash is happening and what products to use. Below is a very general overview, to help point you

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