Integumentary System: Functions, Structure, Aging, and Pressure Ulcers

What is the major function of the integumentary system?

To cover and protect the body.

What clinical clue does jaundice indicate?

A yellowish color indicating potential internal issues.

What does pallor refer to?

An abnormally pale appearance.

What is flushing in the context of skin appearance?

Redness of the skin.

What does cyanosis indicate?

A bluish or gray color of the skin.

What changes in skin color must be reported to a nurse immediately?

Abnormally pale, flushed, bluish, or yellowish hues, general changes in skin color, emergence of a new rash, changes in an existing rash, or changes in the appearance of a mole.

What are the two distinct layers of the skin?

Epidermis (outer layer) and dermis (deepest layer).

What is the subcutaneous tissue?

A layer of fat that the skin rests on.

Where is the epidermis thickest?

On the soles of the feet and the palms of the hands.

What are the two sublayers of the epidermis?

A deep layer where new cells are produced and a surface layer.

What is keratin?

A protein that causes cells to thicken and become resistant to water.

What role does melanin play in the skin?

It is a dark pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes, protecting the skin from sunlight.

What does the dermis contain?

Elastic connective tissue, blood vessels, nerves, sensory receptors, sebaceous glands, sweat glands, and hair follicles.

What is the function of sebaceous glands?

To secrete sebum, which lubricates the skin, prevents drying, protects from bacteria, and maintains a slightly acidic pH level.

What are the two types of sweat glands?

Eccrine glands (produce a watery liquid) and apocrine glands (produce a thicker substance responsible for body odor).

What is the role of hair on the scalp?

To help maintain body warmth.

What is the function of nails?

To protect the ends of fingers and toes.

What physiological function does the integumentary system perform related to temperature regulation?

It regulates body temperature through blood vessel movement in the dermis.

What happens to blood vessels when the body is warm?

They dilate, increasing flow to the surface to radiate heat out.

What happens to blood vessels when the body is cold?

They constrict, minimizing flow to the surface to retain heat.

What are age spots?

Melanin deposits in specific areas of the skin, often seen on the face or back of the hands.

What are the four clinical stages of a pressure ulcer?

Stages progress from the epidermis through the dermis, hypodermis, muscle, and finally to the bone.

What are common risk factors for developing pressure ulcers?

Advanced age, poor nutrition and hydration, moisture on the skin, cardiovascular and respiratory problems, and friction injuries.

What is a superficial burn?

A first-degree burn that involves the top layer of skin.

What is a partial thickness burn?

A second-degree burn that involves the top and middle layers of skin.

What is a full-thickness burn?

A third-degree burn that involves all layers of the skin.

What is dermatitis?

Inflammation of the skin.

What is eczema?

A type of chronic dermatitis.

What are macules?

Small, flat, discolored lesions.

What are papules?

Small, raised, firm lesions.

What are vesicles?

Blister-like lesions filled with clear, watery fluid.

What are pustules?

Vesicles specifically containing pus.