HSN Flashcards
What are some functions of the skin?
Protect cells from external environment Limit loss of fluid Barrier to microorganisms Formation of Vitamin D Regulation of body temperature Fat provides insulation Numerous sensory receptors (pain, touch, pressure)
What is the function of the epidermis?
To be a protective barrier
What are some skin changes related with aging?
Loss of elasticity Sweat glands decrease in number Melanocytes in hair decrease Nails grow more slowly Hair loss
What should you inspect the skin and mucous membranes for?
Color, thickness, symmetry, hygiene, lesions, masses, rashes
What characteristics should you check for when assessing lesions?
Location and distribution, arrangement, size, shape, color, texture, elevation/depression, exudates
What are the ABCs of melanoma?
Asymmetry Border Color Diameter Elevation
What are the basic types of skin lesions?
Primary and secondary lesions
What are primary lesions?
Lesions that may have resulted from previously normal skin
Ex: macule, papule, vesicle, pustule, nodule, wheal
What are secondary lesions?
Lesions that results from changes in primary lesions
Ex: ulcer, fissure, atrophy, crust
What are characteristics of a nodule?
Small solid collection of tissue Palpable 1-2 cm Present in any layer of skin Ex: tumor
What are characteristics of a papule?
Raise solid lesion less than 1 cm
Ex: wart
What are characteristics of a vesicle?
Small blister on the skin, usually <0.5 cm
Ex: chicken pox
What are characteristics of a macule?
Flat change in skin color
Cannot be palpated
Ex: freckle
What are characteristics of a wheal?
A spongy, raised flat lesion resulting from fluid build up in the dermis
Only lasts a few hours
Ex: hives, TB test
What are petechiae?
Small red or purple spots on the surface of the skin
Tiny hemorrhages of blood vessels
What are cherry angiomas?
A cluster of tiny dilated capillaries on the skin surface. Red and raised
What can septic shock cause in the body?
Widespread petechiae
What is acne vulgaris: pustule?
An inflammatory disease of the skin caused by blocked hair follicles
What is a cyst?
A closed sac with a distinct membrane that can contain air, fluid, or a semi-solid material
What is psoriasis?
Scaly patches on the skin
What could fine, silky hair indicate?
Hyperthyroidism
What could coarse thinning hair indicate?
Hypothyroidism
What is hirsutism?
Male patterned hair in women
What should one inspect the hair for?
Color, length, configuration, symmetry, cleanliness
