Integumentary System

Question 1

What are the 3 layers of skin and describe their characteristics

Answer 1

Epidermis - (outer layer) contains living & dead cells

Dermis - (inner layer) connective tissue. Contains blood vessels, nerves, sweat etc.

Subcutaneous layer - fatty tissue below skin

Question 2

What are the functions of Skin?

Answer 2

• Protection: physical barrier
• Absorption: sunlight for vitamin D production, medications
• Sensory: enabling us to feel touch, pain, temperature
• Regulation of Body Temp: sweating, shivering

Question 3

What are the skin changes associated with aging?

Answer 3

• Increased risk of skin breakdown
• Less nerve endings
• Layer of fatty tissue is lost
• Nails become thick and tough
• Hair whitens, thins, dry
• Fewer blood vessels slows healing

Question 4

What strategies a HCA can do to Promote skin & Prevent skin breakdown

Answer 4

• no soap on face
• moisturizing lotion
• avoid thermal injuries
• offer fluids
• prevent friction and shearing
• follow repositioning schedule
• keep skin moisturized but be careful to “never grease a crease”

Question 5

What is the Skin made up of?

Answer 5

Epithelial, Nerve, Connective Tissue

Question 6

Characteristics / Normal Observation of a Healthy Skin

Answer 6

Soft
Adequate moisture
Intact
Smooth
Cool or warm
Elastic and turgor
Skin color

Question 7

What to observe or look for as an HCA

Answer 7

Pain
Temperature
Rashes or bruises
Color of lips
Shape of fingernails
Open areas

Question 8

Stages of Pressure Ulcers

Answer 8

Stage 1 - skin is red and color does not return to normal when relieved of pressure
Stage 2 - skin has cracks, blisters or peels - shallow crater
Stage 3 - the skin is gone underlying tissues exposed and damaged
Stage 4 - muscles and bone are exposed drainage is likely