Ch 53 Integumentary System Function and Data Collection Flashcards
What are the three layers of the skin?
Epidermis, Dermis, Hypodermis (subcutaneous tissue).
What is the primary function of the epidermis?
Acts as a barrier to protect against infection and water loss.
What do melanocytes do?
Produce melanin, which gives color to skin and hair.
What is the role of intraepidermal macrophages?
First line of defense against pathogens attempting to enter the skin.
What provides skin its strength and elasticity?
Collagen fibers in the dermis.
What is the function of the hypodermis?
Cushions, insulates, and contains leukocytes to destroy pathogens.
How does hair contribute to protection?
Eyebrows/eyelashes prevent debris from entering eyes; nostril hair filters air; head hair provides insulation.
What is the function of nails?
Protects the ends of digits from mechanical injury and helps with grasping objects.
What are the main sensory receptors in the skin?
Free nerve endings (heat, cold, pain) and encapsulated nerve endings (touch, pressure).
What type of glands are located in the dermis?
Cutaneous exocrine glands (sweat, sebaceous, tear glands).
What is insensible perspiration?
Loss of approximately 500ml of water per day through the skin without noticeable sweating.
How do blood vessels in the dermis help regulate body temperature?
Vasodilation releases heat; vasoconstriction conserves heat.
What vitamin does the skin help synthesize?
Vitamin D, from cholesterol when exposed to UV light.
What are some normal aging changes of the skin?
Thinner, more fragile, less elasticity, reduced oil production, increased risk of injury and infection.
What are common skin conditions in older adults?
Dryness, delayed wound healing, increased risk for skin tears and pressure injuries.
What is the significance of skin problems in systemic diseases?
Skin changes can be the first visible sign of an underlying health condition.
What information should be gathered in a skin health history?
History of dryness, rashes, itching, skin disorders, allergies, recent trauma, sun exposure.
What is an important consideration when assessing hair and nails?
Changes in growth patterns, hair loss, nail abnormalities, artificial nail use.
What medications may cause skin reactions?
Antibiotics, NSAIDs, chemotherapy drugs, anticonvulsants.
How can occupation affect skin health?
Exposure to chemicals, irritants, or excessive sun can increase risk for skin disorders.
What are important questions to ask about home environment during skin assessment?
Presence of pets, use of skin products, household chemicals, exposure to contagious skin conditions.
Why is a well-lit, warm room necessary for a skin exam?
To accurately assess color, moisture, texture, and lesions.
What tools are used in a skin exam?
Penlight, magnifying glass, ruler, gloves.
What are characteristics of normal skin?
Intact, smooth, dry, well-hydrated, warm, elastic turgor.