ADDRESSING THE SKIN AND ITS PURPOSE - PART 2

The Skin and its Purpose - Part 2

Anasarca

Anasarca, which is also known as generalised edema,
may be caused by a number of conditions. These include:
- Heart, renal or liver failure. 
Learn more about: Anasarca 

In Anasarca, the skin is stretched and there is swelling.

Skin breakdown may occur in the patient confined to
bed. An air mattress may be ordered by the doctor, to 

prevent this from happening.

What is the Braden Scale used for ?

The Braden Scale is used for predicting
pressure ulcers on the skin.These may
develop in patients who are confined to
bed for long periods of time. Turning , 
positioning and good body alignment
are ways in which this can be prevented. 

Burns and the skin:

Scenario: Sam is a cook in a restaurant. He was

not prepared for his sleeve catching on fire. He 

suffered second and third degree burns. Sam was

transported to the Emergency Room.

Skin grafting is sometimes done to cover the 
burnt area. Healthy tissue is taken from another 
part of the body, to cover the damaged area. The
grafted area, eventually becomes fused with the 
tissue around it.

Most people who anticipate taking a long plane

flight may hardly stop to think about dehydration
and its consequences. 

This topic continues here : Dehydration

The skin gives clues to many problems

In the image above, a patient is in possible sepsis.
There is abdominal tenderness and redness at the
wound site. High fever and increased respirations
are also noted on assessment. The doctor's orders
include lab values : 

( WBCs, ABG, electrolytes and PT/ PTT ).

Learn more about : Sepsis

IV infiltration may cause damage to the skin and 

surrounding tissue.Learn more about: IV site care

The nurse should take
 the time to  assess an
IV site that is swollen
and painful. It may be
necessary to  change
the site, in order to
prevent further tissue
damage.