1. Structures of Integumentary System: Epidermis-No lymphatic or vascular
structures
Dermis-Connective tissue beneath the epidermis. Very
vascular.
Contains nerves, lymphatic vessels, hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and special- ized cells
such as mast cells and macrophages.
Subcutaneous tissue
Loose connective tissue and fat
helps provide insulation, regulate temperature, and store fat
attaches the other skin layers to tissues under the skin, like bones and muscles Skin
appendages
Nail
Hair
Sweat
Sebaceous glands
2. function of integumentary system: Protection
Barrier from bacteria and viruses
Insulation
Sensory perception Control
of heat regulation Synthesis
of vitamin D
important for calcium absorption
3. What physical techniques are used to assess skin?: Inspection and palpation (assess
bilaterally- look at the other arm or other side)
4. Health history questions pertinent to this body system when assessing the
integumentary system.: Health history questions: allergies, eczema, sunburns, skin
cancer, any open areas or wound (lesions), skin dryness or oiliness, Do you notice any
changes in your skin?
5. Health promotions questions regarding the integumentary system?: Health
promotion questions? Health history of family and you, what do you do to take care of your
skin?
Client responses may require follow-up questions.
6. What are some tools that are used in a physical examination when assess- ing
integumentary/ MS systems: Maintain privacy, prepare environment Uncover one body
part at a time-WHY?
Clinical photography
Good lighting Measuring
tool
,Gloves for contact with body fluids or open skin
, Screening Tools:
-(Braden Scale)
https://www.in.gov/isdh/files/Braden_Scale.pdf
-ABCDE Assessment for skin cancer
https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/skin-cancer/find/at-risk/abcdes
7. What are some expected findings in a skin assessment for color and tem-
perature?: Variations in color
-General or localized (ex. scar tissue, freckling)
-Genetic
-Age-related
-Sun damage
-Pregnancy Temperature
-variations due to environment or chronic perfusion issues
8. What are some unexpected findings in a skin assessment for color and
temperature?: Color
-Pallor
-Cyanosis
-Jaundice
-Erythema
-Ecchymosis
-Hematoma
-Petechiae Temperature
-Hyper/Hypothermia
9. When doing an assessment for pallor in patients with darker skin tone where do you
look?: -palmar side of hand
-conjunctival membrane (in the eye)
10. What are some expected findings when doing a skin assessment for skin
integrity?: intact, no breaking
-scars from trauma, procedures
-hygiene
11. What are some unexpected findings when doing a skin assessment for skin
integrity?: -Lesions need to be investigated further
-Primary and secondary
-Obtain thorough subjective history of new skin changes
-ABCDE Assessment
-malignancy
-Infestation