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Skin Engagement Day 2025
We were honoured to welcome so many specialist stoma care nurses from across the UK, including Northern Ireland, to our Skin Engagement Day at the Salts Academy, run in collaboration with our Central Skin Sciences Institute (CSSI). The day was filled with fun, engaging, and insightful sessions exploring the world of skin and its importance in the sphere of stoma care clinical practice.
This collaboration highlighted the skin’s role and function, which is fundamental when managing skin health and complex peristomal skin conditions — something we do every day in our specialist roles. The study day was developed in collaboration with Dr Amanda Goodby (Senior Scientific Research Manager), Mireille Hamson (Clinical Research Lead) and Klaudia Taradys (Biological Research Scientist), whose academic and clinical expertise helped shape the educational content and delivery. It was hosted at the Salts Academy with Angie Perrin (Clinical Lead) and Ben Rennison (Education CNS) facilitating the day.
A range of topics was explored, including:
- An overview of skin anatomy
- A deep dive into the importance of the skin microbiome
- How stoma formation can impact this delicate balance
- An interactive workshop focused on biophysical testing to assess skin health parameters; this included skin barrier function, hydration, pH, skin erythema and elasticity
As part of this, delegates had the opportunity to experience having their skin tested with skin testing equipment.
Their skin was assessed using various parameters, including:
- Transepidermal water loss
- Hydration
- Elasticity
- pH
Some delegates were selected to wear an adhesive sample on their forearm to investigate differences compared to those not wearing one; any visible changes were later reviewed using a validated scoring tool.
The data from these activities were collated and analysed by Dr Amanda Goodby, as referenced later in the day.
As specialist stoma care nurses, our practice is always evidence-based. A key part of the day was a discussion around potential gaps in evidence specific to stoma care and how we might address these through practical strategies. The sessions also reinforced the three essential pillars of evidence-based practice: individual clinical expertise, best available external evidence, and patient values and expectations. In particular, we highlighted that clinical expertise — often developed through experience and passed down within teams — remains vital, especially in areas where published evidence is limited.
The afternoon sessions, led by Angie and Ben, encouraged further collaboration. Interactive case study work allowed nurses to explore real-life patient scenarios and examine the variability in management approaches. Working in small groups, delegates considered treatment plans and product selection, supported by clinical evidence. By dissecting the pros and cons of product use, nurses were able to reflect on how evidence drives our decision-making in everyday practice. These sessions truly highlighted the breadth of available products and the different approaches taken across the UK — with delegates actively participating at every step. We also introduced interactive digital tools to help guide discussion and capture real-time insights, adding an extra layer of engagement and showing how educational delivery continues to evolve with the times.
Before the day concluded, Dr Amanda Goodby shared the outcomes from the biophysical testing, where some exciting correlations had emerged through the sessions.
This wonderfully collaborative day ensured every nurse had a voice — something vital in today’s ever-evolving healthcare landscape. We are proud to be Specialist Stoma Care Nurses and are passionate about protecting and championing this amazing speciality. A heartfelt thank you to all who attended and contributed to such an innovative, inspiring day.
Ben Rennison – Clinical Education Nurse Specialist
