NUR 306 Lecture Notes - Lecture 7: Alopecia Areata, Cutaneous Condition, Ecchymosis
Document Summary
Overview of the skin: largest and heaviest organ, weights approx. Epidermis: keratinocytes: cells continuing protein, melanocytes: cells producing melanin, stratum corneum: thin layer of dead skin. Dermis: supportive layer made of mostly connective tissue. It contains proteins, collagen, elastic fibers, and produces oil. Subcutaneous tissue: fatty connective and adipose tissue. Protects the underlying structures from physical trauma, provides insulation for temperature control. Sweat gland and apocrine glands: sweat glands: axilla, perianal, areole, periumbilical, genital, external ear canal, eyelids. Eccrine glands: maintain temperature and produce sweat. Apocrine glands: produce swear that causes body odor when reacting to bacterial decomposition or emotional stress. Purpose to identify: diseases of the skin, systemic diseases with skin manifestations, physical abuse, risk for pressure ulcers, risk for skin cancer, integrate health promotion. Inspect areas where there is less pigmentation (lips, oral mucosa, sclera, palms of hands, conjunctivae of the inner eyelids. Increased pigmentation in the creases of the palms and soles.
