Nursing Management of a Young Child With Epidermolysis Bullosa Simplex

Abstract

Background: Epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS) belongs to a group of inherited, mechanobullous disorders; one subtype is EBS DowlingYMeara (EBS-DM), which is the focus of this article. EBS-DM is characterized by painful skin blistering from minor friction, which evolves into chronic wounds. Objective: We describe the holistic nursing care of a child with EBS-DM in a tertiary outpatient dermatology clinic in Singapore. Methods: This case study highlights the clinical history, signs and symptoms, pathophysiology, nursing management, and patient education of a child with EBS-DM. Conclusion: The management of EBS-DM poses challenges in the absence of a definite cure. Patients with EBS-DM need individualized care, according to the severity of their disease. A multidisciplinary team approach of providing holistic care helps to maximize the health, outcome, and quality of life for these patients.