Introduction to the Integumentary System

Integumentary System Structures covering the body’s exterior surface

Skin Two Layers o Epidermis: Replaced ≈ every 35 to 45 days o Dermis: Ridges: Create a unique pattern of finger, palm, and footprints; Facilitate the ability to grip and hold objects Subcutaneous tissue: Skin attached to muscle, bone; Connective tissue, fat cells Melanin gives the skin its color

Question Is the following statement true or false? The epidermis is replaced with new cells every 35 – 45 days. The next layer, the dermis, contains the ridges which comprise the fingerprints.

Answer False. The epidermis contains the ridges which comprise the fingerprints.

Skin Functions Protection Temperature Regulation o Radiation; Conduction o Evaporation; Convection Sensory Processing Chemical Synthesis

Question Is the following statement true or false? One of the primary functions of the skin is to protect the underlying structures.

Answer True. One of the primary functions of the skin is to protect the underlying structures. Protection from pathogens and also from dehydration.

Hair Originates in hair follicle in dermis Vellus hair; Terminal hair Keratin + amino acids = hair Scalp hair grows most rapidly Hair growth slows by midlife Decreased melanin production causes graying hair

Sebaceous, Sweat Glands Connected to each hair follicle Secrete sebum (oily substance) More active during puberty Sweat Glands o Eccrine glands o Apocrine glands

Question Is the following statement true or false? Apocrine glands secrete fluid during perspiration.

Answer True. Apocrine glands secrete fluid during perspiration. They also secrete a substance in the external ear canals called cerumen. In animals, apocrine glands secrete pheromones.

Finger, Toenails Nails o Hard keratin; Protective function; Nail root o Abundant capillary blood supply; Lunula

Pressure Sore Staging o Stage I: Redness o Stage II: Blistering or skin tear o Stage III: Shallow crater with drainage o Stage IV: Deep ulcerated tissue; Exposed muscle and bone; Sepsis

Integumentary Assessments Scalp, Hair Assessment o Skin: Smooth; Intact; Free of lesions o Assess: Color, texture, and distribution o Abnormal findings: Nits or lice; Scales, flaking skin Nail Assessment o Check for normal structure o Assess: Change in shape or thickness; Color of nailbed; Capillary refill time

Integumentary Diagnostic Tests Visual Inspection Culture and Sensitivity Tests Allergy Tests Wood’s Light Examination Potassium Hydroxide Test Fungal Culture Skin Biopsy

Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders Drug Therapy o Corticosteroids; Antihistamines o Antibiotics; Antiseptics o Scabicides; Pediculicides o Antiseborrheic agents o Keratolytics o Standard precautions in application of topical medication over impaired skin

Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders Wet Dressings o Cooling, soothing effect o Sterile procedure for broken skin o Dry gauze placed on area is saturated with prescribed solution o Dressing anchored o Left in place until dry as a method of debridement

Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders Therapeutic Baths o No soaps; Warm water o Gentle application of solution to submerged parts o Inflammation and itching relief o Aid in removal of crusts and scales o Products used: Oatmeal; Cornstarch; Baking soda; Mineral oil

Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders Surgical Excision o Laser therapy Acronym for LASER Precautions o Cryosurgery o Electrodessication Radiation Therapy: Treatment of malignant skin lesions

Medical, Surgical Treatment of Skin Disorders Photochemotherapy o Combination of psoralen methoxsalen and ultraviolet A light Lifestyle Changes o Tiredness or emotional stress aggravates condition o Rest, sleep, and diet are important factors in treatment

End of Presentation