Unit 18 - Integumentary System Review

Comprehensive vocabulary flashcards covering the Integumentary System, skin layers, burn classifications, pressure injury staging, skin disorders, and clinical applications.

Integumentary System

The body's protective outer covering consisting of skin, hair, and nails.

Epidermis

The outer layer of the skin.

Dermis

The inner layer of skin containing dermal papillae, follicles, glands, blood vessels, receptors, and fibers.

Dermal papillae

Structures located in the dermis that create fingerprints and footprints.

Subcutaneous Layer

A layer of adipose tissue (fat) below the dermis providing cushioning, protection, and insulation.

First (Superficial) Degree Burn

A burn affecting only the epidermis, characterized by redness and pain.

Second (Partial Thickness) Degree Burn

A burn affecting the epidermis and dermis, characterized by redness, pain, swelling, and blistering.

Third (Full Thickness) Degree Burn

A burn affecting all skin layers and underlying tissue, resulting in white or charred skin and muscle/bone involvement.

Pressure Injuries

Injuries occurring at pressure points where bone lies close to skin; also known as pressure sores, decubitus ulcers, or bed sores.

Stage $1$ Pressure Injury

Intact skin with persistent redness.

Stage $2$ Pressure Injury

Partial thickness loss involving the epidermis and dermis.

Stage $3$ Pressure Injury

Full thickness loss where fat is visible, involving the epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layer.

Stage $4$ Pressure Injury

Full thickness loss that extends to the muscle or bone.

Unstageable Pressure Injury

Full thickness loss covered by slough or eschar, which may be a stage $3$ or $4$ injury.

Deep Tissue Pressure Injury

Intact or non-intact skin that is deeply discolored and may appear like a blood blister.

Scabies

A skin condition caused by tiny mites burrowing into the skin, resulting in intense itching.

Shingles (Herpes Zoster)

A painful rash on one side of the body caused by the same virus that causes chickenpox.

Cellulitis

A bacterial skin infection.

Dermatitis

Inflammation of the skin.

Psoriasis

A chronic skin condition.

Gangrene

Death of tissue caused by a lack of blood flow, often due to burns, diabetes, or injuries.

Heat Application Benefits

Relieves muscle tension and pain, increases blood flow and oxygen delivery, and improves waste removal.

Cold Application Benefits

Stops bleeding, minimizes swelling, reduces pain, and brings down high temperatures.

$20$-minute rule

Limit heat or cold applications to a maximum of $20$ minutes to avoid receiving the opposite of the intended effect.

Repositioning Protocol

To prevent pressure injuries, the resident should be repositioned every $2$ hours, or every $1$ hour if in a wheelchair.

Sterile vs. Non-sterile Dressings

Non-sterile procedures are used for dry wounds; sterile procedures are used for new, wet wounds or wounds at risk for infection.