
ECRI’s Focus on MARSI: Safer Solutions for Adhesive Challenges
Medical adhesive-related skin injuries (MARSI) are more than a minor inconvenience. They are a prominent concern, highlighted by ECRI’s 2025 Health Technology Hazards report, which identifies MARSI as a significant issue in patient safety.1 Medical adhesives are essential for securing medical devices like vascular access devices, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), and left ventricular assist device (LVAD) drivelines, but they can also pose risks if not selected and used carefully.
Why MARSI is Significant
MARSI occurs when adhesives damage the outer layer of the skin, leaving patients vulnerable to infections. Factors like age, nutrition, and medical conditions influence the skin’s resilience, while the adhesive’s strength and application technique can exacerbate the risk.
Medical devices present the dual challenge of maintaining secure adhesion while protecting skin integrity. Securement of vascular access devices is critical since there is significant risk to the patient if the devices dislodge or function improperly.2 In CGM users, strong adhesives are essential to keep sensors in place for up to two weeks. However, they often cause irritation or injury upon removal. Similarly, for LVAD patients, durable driveline dressings are critical to prevent infections but require frequent changes that increase MARSI risk.
Detachol: A Gentle Solution with Broad Applicability
Eloquest Healthcare’s Detachol Adhesive Remover offers a practical solution to these challenges. The adhesive remover is specially formulated to remove adhesives gently, reducing the likelihood of MARSI. Unlike alcohol- or acetone-based removers, it does not dry out or irritate the skin. Instead, its non-irritating formula and precise applicator ampule effectively breaks down adhesive bonds, enabling effortless removal.
In high-stakes settings, such as critical care, having a product that combines effectiveness with gentleness is critical. Detachol delivers on that promise, supporting caregivers as they prioritize patient comfort and safety. Detachol Adhesive Remover has become a trusted product for nurses working in these environments, and this testimonial from a clinical educator speaks volumes:
“Detachol Adhesive Remover has been impactful for nursing staff due to its ease of use and application in the pediatric critical care setting. This adhesive remover allows for safe and gentle removal of [transparent dressings] and various tapes used on our fragile patient population. Detachol Adhesive Remover is a superior product that I would highly recommend to any institution!” – Deniro B., BSN, RN, CCRN, Clinical Educator
For CGM users, Detachol plays a crucial role in reducing discomfort. Warren Farrell, a long-time CGM user, shared, “Using Detachol has made device removal a breeze. It leaves no residue and doesn’t cause irritation, which is a game-changer.” Another user, Charlie, emphasized that Detachol was not only more effective but also less odorous than alternatives, making it a preferred choice for sensitive applications.
For LVAD patients, Detachol has proven invaluable. A 14-week study at Dignity Health Mercy General Hospital evaluated the addition of a gum mastic liquid adhesive (Mastisol) and Detachol adhesive remover to driveline dressing kits. Results showed that the gum mastic liquid adhesive extended dressing durability, reducing changes from every 4.9 days to over 7 days on average.3 Using Detachol adhesive remover minimized MARSI risks, improved patients’ quality of life, and lowered healthcare costs.
Transforming Care Through Skin-Safe Solutions
Beyond individual use cases, Detachol delivers measurable benefits to healthcare systems focused on enhancing patient outcomes. In a study evaluating vascular access dressings, Detachol was associated with avoidance of skin injuries. Over 30,000 vascular access device sites were assessed, with no dressing-related skin injuries reported following the implementation of a care bundle that included Mastisol and Detachol.4 These results highlight the critical role or proper securement and adhesive removal as essential strategies for preventing MARSI .
Moreover, Detachol’s compatibility with chlorhexidine gluconate (CHG)5 and availability in various sizes—ranging from single-use vials to bottles for long-term use—make it adaptable across care settings. This versatility ensures healthcare professionals and patients can easily access a safe and effective solution for adhesive removal.
The Path Forward: Safer Adhesive Practices
As the ECRI report suggests, reducing MARSI requires a twofold approach: selecting appropriate adhesives and ensuring safe removal practices. Adhesive removers like Detachol are pivotal in minimizing risks, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Healthcare facilities can further improve outcomes by integrating evidence-based products like Detachol into standard protocols. Training staff on proper application and removal techniques and providing easy access to suitable adhesive solutions can help transform care delivery.
Patients, too, stand to benefit from greater awareness of MARSI risks and the solutions available. A simple change, such as using a non-irritating adhesive remover, can significantly improve their experience and quality of life.
As medical technology continues to evolve, the role of seemingly small innovations like adhesive removers cannot be overstated. Products like Detachol enhance patient safety, comfort, and overall care quality. By addressing MARSI proactively, healthcare providers can ensure that medical devices deliver their full benefits without compromising skin integrity.
For more information about Detachol Adhesive Remover or to request an evaluation, contact Eloquest Healthcare. Together, we can make skin safety a standard of care.

References:
- Top 10 Health Technology Hazards for 2025: Executive Brief. Plymouth Meeting, PA: ECRI, 2024. Available at: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0826/0472/0443/files/Top10HealthTechHazards_2025_ExecutiveBrief.pdf?v=1733223585&utm_campaign=Acute%20%7C%20Independent%20Device%20Evaluation&utm_medium=email&_hsenc=p2ANqtz–gjURDZ5inzKeLSk1oyi3ctrZokTVDz0tLG1m3V25Bh2-k4KXK4AWmBodJx-MO_NyVscNN7GZgLV58QI_nNjDX_M0M6WiEh3FD269GvZeq39BBI5U&_hsmi=336966413&utm_content=336966413&utm_source=hs_email.
- McNichol L, Lund C, Rosen T, Gray M. Medical adhesives and patient safety: state of the science: consensus statements for the assessment, prevention, and treatment of adhesive-related skin injuries. Orthop Nurs. 2013 Sep-Oct;32(5):267-81. doi: 10.1097/NOR.0b013e3182a39caf. PMID: 24022422.
- Vowels A. Quality improvement project to assess the effect of gum mastic liquid adhesive on the integrity and durability of driveline dressings, risk of infection, and patient satisfaction. Vasc Access. 2023;28(3):31–37; doi: 10.2309/java-d-2300006.
- DeVries M, Sarbenoff J, Scott N, Nancy; Wickert M, Hayes LM. Improving Vascular Access Dressing Integrity in the Acute Care Setting: A Quality Improvement Project. Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing. 2021 Sept-Oct; 48(5): 383-88. DOI: 10.1097/WON.0000000000000787
- Ryder M, Duley C, Evaluation of compatibility of a gum mastic liquid adhesive and liquid adhesive remover with an alcoholic chlorhexidine gluconate skin J Infusion Nursing 2017;40(4):245‐252.