Integumentary system Flashcards
Mrs. DeStephano, a 45 year old woman, reveals several impairments of homeostasis. Relative to her integumentary system, the following comments are noted in her chart.
*Epidermal abrasions of the right arm and shoulder
*severe lacerations of the right cheek and temple
*cyansis apparent
The lacerated areas are cleaned, sutured (stitched), and bandaged by the emergency room (ER) personnel, and Mrs. DeStephano is admitted for further tests.
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What protective mechanisms are impaired or deficient in the abraded areas?
the skin separates and protects the internal environment of the body from potentially dangerous elements in the external environment. Mrs. DeStephano’s chart indicates epidermal abrasions, which represent the loss of this barrier. Epidermal loss will also cost Mrs. DeStephano the acid mantle of her skin, protection against UV radiation, and dendritic cells, which protect against invasion against microorganisms.
Assuming that bacteria are penetratinf the dermis in these areas, what remaining skin defenses might act to prevent further bacterial infection?
Macrophages found in the dermis can act as a backup system against bacterial and viral invasion when the epidermis is damaged.
what benefit is conferred by suturing the lacerations?
Suturing brings edges of wounds close together and promote fast healing because smaller amounts of granulation tissue need to be formed. This is termed healing by first intention.
Mrs. DeStephano’s cyanotic skin may hint at what additional problem (and impairment of what body systems or functions)
Cyanosis signals a decrease in the amount of oxygen carried by hemoglobin in the blood. Respiratory system and/or cardiovascular system impairments can lead to cyanosis.
