Digital skin surveillance of healthcare workers in the NHS
This study explores a new way to check NHS healthcare workers for a common skin problem called hand dermatitis. Many NHS staff get hand rashes because they wash their hands often, and employers have a duty to monitor this. We're testing if using simple hand photos taken on a phone, along with a quick questionnaire, can help spot dermatitis early. If you take part, a trained nurse will look at your photos and answers. This could help create a better system across the NHS to find and manage hand rashes sooner. You'll find out if you might have dermatitis and get advice on where to get help from your GP or occupational health.
At a glance
What is this study about?
This research is looking into a common skin condition called hand dermatitis, which is basically a skin rash or irritation on the hands. It's a big issue for healthcare workers in the UK because they wash their hands so often. Currently, employers in the NHS are meant to check for this condition, but it can be tricky to do in a practical and easy way for everyone.
This study wants to find out if using digital tools – like asking staff to take photos of their hands with their phone and fill in a quick online questionnaire – can be a good way to check for hand dermatitis. The goal is to see if this method is accurate, simple to use, and something that NHS staff are happy to do. If it works well, it could mean that hand dermatitis is found earlier, and staff can get help sooner.
By taking part, you would help us understand if this digital health check could become a standard way for the NHS to look after the skin health of its staff. This could lead to better ways of preventing and managing hand rashes for many healthcare workers, not just in this study, but across the whole NHS.
Key takeaways
- A study using phone photos and questionnaires to check NHS staff for hand rashes.
- Aims to find a simpler, earlier way to spot and manage hand dermatitis.
- Participation involves taking hand photos and filling out a short online form.
- You'll get feedback on your hand health and advice if needed.
- Low risk study; helps improve health checks for all NHS workers.
- Running from September 2024 to August 2026.
Who may be eligible?
This study is open to NHS staff, both those who directly care for patients (clinical) and those who work behind the scenes (non-clinical). You need to be between 16 and 80 years old, have an NHS email address, and use a smartphone or tablet to take photos.
Crucially, you should be someone who washes their hands at least 10 times a day at work – this includes roles like nurses, lab staff, and others who are at higher risk of getting hand dermatitis. You shouldn't currently have hand dermatitis diagnosed by a doctor, or have used strong steroid creams on your hands in the last six weeks.
Temporary staff, contractors, or those on long-term sick leave (four weeks or more) are not able to join. The study also aims to include people with different skin types.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you an NHS staff member (clinical or non-clinical)?
- Do you wash your hands at least 10 times a day at work?
- Are you aged between 16 and 80 years old?
- Do you have an NHS email address?
- Do you have a smartphone or tablet to take photos?
- Do you NOT currently have hand dermatitis diagnosed by a doctor?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you'll be asked to complete a very short questionnaire about your skin. You'll also need to take clear photos of your hands using your own smartphone or tablet. The study team will provide simple instructions on how to take these 'selfie' hand photos using a specific method. Once you've sent these in, a specially trained dermatology nurse (with a skin doctor, called a dermatologist, checking if needed) will look at your questionnaire and photos to see if there are signs of hand dermatitis. There are no face-to-face visits, medication involved, or long-term follow-up from the study team. You'll receive feedback on your assessment. The whole process is expected to be quick and easy.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (4)
- University Hospitals of Leicester NHS TrustCity onlyLeicester, England
- Aneurin Bevan University LhbCity onlyNewport, Wales
- Guys and St Thomas' NHS Foundation TrustCity onlyLondon, England
- Hampshire and Isle of Wight Healthcare NHS Foundation TrustCity onlySouthampton, England
Common questions
What is hand dermatitis?
Hand dermatitis is a common skin condition where your hands become red, itchy, dry, or cracked, often due to irritation from frequent washing or contact with certain substances.
Will my employer know my results?
The study aims to be confidential. While you will get feedback on your assessment, the researchers cannot make you share this with your employer. However, existing NHS rules mean staff suspecting hand dermatitis should report it.
How long will the study take for me?
Your part in the study primarily involves completing one questionnaire and sending in photos, which should be very quick to do.
Who will see my hand photos?
Your hand photos will be assessed by a trained dermatology nurse, and sometimes by a dermatologist (skin doctor), to check for signs of dermatitis. Your privacy is important.
What happens if they think I have dermatitis?
If the assessment suggests you might have hand dermatitis, you will be strongly advised to get further advice and support from your GP, local occupational health department, or a pharmacist.
How to find out more
Vaughan Parsons
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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