Week 14 Flashcards
What is the outermost layer of the skin called?
The stratum corneum
Which layer of the skin contains melanocytes?
The stratum basale (deepest layer of the epidermis).
What is the primary function of keratinocytes?
To produce keratin, which provides protective properties to the skin.
What type of radiation makes up 95% of the solar radiation that reaches the Earth?
UVA radiation.
What is the main effect of UVA rays on the skin?
They penetrate deep into the dermis, causing indirect DNA damage and premature aging.
How do UVB rays primarily affect the skin?
They penetrate the outer layers of the dermis and cause direct DNA damage.
What is erythema?
Redness of the skin caused by increased blood flow, often due to sunburn
What is the role of Langerhans cells in the skin?
They are antigen-presenting immune cells that help repair damaged skin
What is a first-degree burn?
A superficial burn affecting only the outer layer of the epidermis
What are the characteristics of a second-degree burn?
Painful, red, moist, and blistered skin
What does the term “full-thickness burn” refer to?
Burns that extend through the entire dermis and may involve subcutaneous tissue.
What is the Rule of Nines used for?
To estimate the total body surface area (TBSA) affected by burns
What is a pressure ulcer?
A localized injury to the skin or underlying tissue caused by prolonged pressure.
What are the stages of pressure injuries?
Stage I, Stage II, Stage III, Stage IV, and Unstageable.
What defines a Stage I pressure injury?
A defined area of persistent redness without a break in the skin
What occurs in a Stage II pressure injury?
Partial thickness loss of skin with exposed dermis
What is characteristic of a Stage III pressure injury?
Full-thickness skin loss involving damage to subcutaneous tissue
What distinguishes a Stage IV pressure injury?
Full-thickness skin and tissue loss with exposed fascia, muscle, or bone
What is an unstageable pressure injury?
Full-thickness skin and tissue loss where the extent of damage cannot be confirmed due to slough or eschar
What are some common risk factors for developing pressure ulcers?
Impaired mobility, moisture, poor nutrition, and sensory perception issues
How does UV radiation affect the immune system?
It can damage immune cells, reducing the skin’s ability to respond to infections.
What is the primary treatment for mild sunburn?
Anti-inflammatory medications and cool compresses
What is the significance of melanin in the skin?
Melanin protects the DNA in skin cells from UV radiation.
What is the main cause of drug-induced photosensitivity?
Certain medications can cause an exaggerated response to UV radiation.
What is the role of sebaceous glands in the skin?
They produce sebum, which helps to lubricate and protect the skin.
What is the function of sweat glands?
To regulate body temperature through perspiration.
How does the skin respond to UVB exposure?
It triggers sunburn and stimulates the thickening of the epidermis.
What is the primary function of the dermis?
To provide structural support and house blood vessels, nerves, and glands.
What is the hypodermis?
The layer of fat and connective tissue beneath the dermis.
What is the effect of excessive UV exposure on collagen production?
It reduces the production of high-quality collagen, leading to wrinkles.
What is the typical healing time for a first-degree burn?
3 to 10 days.
What is the appearance of a third-degree burn?
Waxy white, brown, deep red, or black skin with no pain due to nerve destruction.
What is the primary goal of treating severe burns?
To maintain cardiorespiratory function and prevent infection.
What is the role of the arrector pili muscle?
To cause hair to stand up (goosebumps) in response to cold or fear.
How does the skin regulate temperature?
Through the dilation and constriction of blood vessels and sweating.
What is the primary cause of sunburn?
Excessive exposure to UV radiation.
What is the difference between UVA and UVB rays in terms of skin damage?
UVA causes indirect damage and penetrates deeper, while UVB causes direct damage to the epidermis.
What is the function of the basement membrane?
To anchor the epidermis to the dermis and provide structural support.
What is the significance of the stratum lucidum?
It is a thin, clear layer found in thick skin areas, providing an additional barrier.
What is the primary characteristic of deep partial thickness burns?
They involve the epidermis and part of the dermis, causing pain and blistering.
How can pressure ulcers be prevented?
By frequent position changes and meticulous skin care.
What is the role of fibroblasts in the skin?
To produce collagen and extracellular matrix, aiding in wound healing.
What is the appearance of a Stage II pressure injury?
A pink or red, moist wound bed that may have serum-filled blisters.
What is the primary cause of skin aging related to UV exposure?
Damage to collagen and elastin fibers, leading to wrinkles and sagging skin.
What is the function of the papillae in the dermis?
To increase the surface area for exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste.
What is the typical healing time for a second-degree burn?
About 1 to 2 weeks.
What is the role of the immune system in skin health?
To protect against pathogens and facilitate healing.
What is the appearance of a Stage III pressure injury?
A deep crater with full-thickness skin loss and possible undermining.
How does the skin respond to UV radiation exposure?
By producing more melanin and thickening the epidermis.
What is the primary treatment for severe burns?
Hospitalization and specialized burn care techniques.
What is the effect of UV radiation on vitamin A production?
It can damage the skin’s ability to produce vitamin A, affecting skin health.
What is the significance of the stratum granulosum?
It is where keratinocytes begin to die and form a barrier to water loss.
What is the primary characteristic of a Stage IV pressure injury?
Full-thickness skin and tissue loss with exposed muscle, tendon, or bone
How does the skin protect against UV radiation?
Through the production of melanin and the thickening of the epidermis.
What is the role of the sebaceous gland in skin health?
To produce oil that keeps the skin moisturized and protected.
What is the appearance of a first-degree burn?
Red or pink, dry, and painful skin without blisters.
What is the primary cause of pressure injuries?
Unrelieved pressure on the skin, often over bony prominences.
What is the role of sweat in thermoregulation?
To cool the body through evaporation.
What is the typical healing time for a third-degree burn?
Healing can take weeks to months, often requiring skin grafts.
What is the effect of UV radiation on skin cancer risk?
Increased UV exposure is a significant risk factor for developing skin cancer.
What is the appearance of a deep tissue injury?
A purple or maroon area of intact skin or a blood-filled blister.
How does the skin contribute to the body’s immune response?
By acting as a barrier and housing immune cells like Langerhans cells.
What is the primary function of the dermal papillae?
To enhance the connection between the dermis and epidermis, improving nutrient exchange.
What is the significance of the stratum spinosum?
It provides strength and flexibility to the skin through dermasomes
What is the role of collagen in the skin?
To provide structural support and strength.
What is the appearance of a Stage I pressure injury?
Persistent redness without a break in the skin.
How does the skin respond to cold temperatures?
By constricting blood vessels and activating arrector pili muscles.
What is the primary characteristic of a full-thickness burn?
It extends through the entire dermis and may involve underlying tissues.
What is the role of the hypodermis in the skin?
To provide insulation and store energy in the form of fat.
What is the effect of UV radiation on skin hydration?
It can lead to dehydration and loss of moisture in the skin.
What is the primary treatment for a Stage II pressure injury?
Wound care and pressure relief to promote healing.
How does the skin help regulate blood pressure?
Through the constriction and dilation of blood vessels in response to temperature changes.
What is the appearance of a Stage III pressure injury?
A deep crater with full-thickness skin loss and possible necrosis.
What is the role of the epidermis in skin function?
To act as a barrier against environmental damage and pathogens.
What is the primary cause of skin discoloration from UV exposure?
Increased melanin production leading to tanning.
What is the significance of the stratum germinativum?
It is where new skin cells are generated through mitosis.
How does the skin contribute to sensory perception?
Through nerve endings that detect touch, temperature, and pain.
What is the primary characteristic of a Stage IV pressure injury?
Exposed or palpable fascia, muscle, or bone within the ulcer.
What is the role of antioxidants in skin health?
To protect skin cells from oxidative stress and damage from UV radiation
What is the typical healing time for a Stage I pressure injury?
Usually resolves within a few hours to days with proper care.
