Essay About Main Function Of The Skin And Part Of Everyday Care

Skin Case
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The skin is the largest vital organ in the human body
and the most visible. The main function of the skin
is to act as a barrier, protecting the warm moist
internal environment from the essentially hostile,
dry and cool external environment in which we
live. It is a common belief that the skin acts as a
total barrier to the penetration of external substances.
In fact, it is permeable to many substances,
including perfumes and dyes with which we may
be in frequent contact.
Apart from protection, the skin plays critical roles
in the control of body temperature and blood pressure.
It also has endocrine functions and contains
numerous sensory receptors (Box 1). The condition
of the skin often reflects underlying disease processes.
It is important that nurses observe and attend to
patients skin. An understanding of the structure
and physiology of the skin enables nurses to assess
what might be causing changes in its texture,
appearance or integrity (Fig. 1). It is claimed that
healthcare professionals are poorly educated in the
management of skin problems and diseases (APGS
2000, APPGS 1998). Assessment of skin by nurses
frequently occurs as part of everyday care-giving.
When a patient is being washed and dressed, nurses
often take the opportunity to examine the skin informally,
particularly in relation to skin integrity and
pressure areas. However, with fewer registered staff
performing hands-on care, it is possible that this significant
aspect of skin care is being overlooked. When
this is the case, it becomes important that formal skin
care assessments are performed and documented.
An understanding of the structure and function of
the skin can assist in this process. In addition, an awareness
of how the skin can