The Skin Research Paper

The skin is the largest organ in the human body (ROSS AND WILSON BOOK) It has many essential functions that, if operate properly, are part of maintaining good health and wellbeing. The structure of the skin is important in ensuring these functions can be performed. The skin provides a reasonably waterproof layer for the body and offers protection as a main function, as well as other key functions including thermoregulation and sensation. Other functions of the skin involve absorption and secretion of fluids and substances, and synthesis of vitamin D. This essay will outline the structure of the skin and describe in detail the skins functions while also highlighting their importance and how structure and function are linked. The skin has microbiota
that inhibit it, this essay will look at the different types of microbiota present and show how they affect the skin and potentially the skins defence. The second half of this essay will focus on how a nurse might evaluate an elderly patients skin integrity by discussing skin conditions such as pressure ulcers, skin tears, moisture damage and dryness. It will also indicate towards appropriate skin care steps. This essay will demonstrate how nursing can aid the maintenance of good health through proper skin care and the importance of the skin. (REFERENCE AND FINISH)
Structure and functions of the skin
The skin is made up of three layers: the epidermis, the dermis, and the subcutaneous tissue (hypodermis).
These layers help the skin to execute its many functions. The epidermis is made of stratified keratinised squamous epithelium which offers a waterproof defence for the skin. The epidermis has several layers within it and provides the most protection from external elements, and is also the site of skin cell production as the top cells are constantly rubbed off and replaced. The dermis is the second layer of the skin and is tough and elastic due to the collagen and elastin fibres it contains. The subcutaneous tissue is the layer beneath the epidermis and dermis which provides insulation as it is comprised of fat tissue. As well as insulating, the subcutaneous tissue acts as a shock absorber and an energy store for the
body.
A principal function of the skin is protection. The skin protects the internal structures and systems in the body from outside elements. These include protection from trauma, invading pathogens, chemicals and ultraviolet (UV) rays. (Ross and Wilson). The protein keratin found in the layers of the skin, particularly the epidermis provides strength and toughness, thus enabling the skin to protect from environment and wear and tear. Invading microorganisms are detected by cells within the epidermis called the Langerhans cells. These cells prepare to defend the body from pathogens by transferring them to the T-lymphocytes and therefore stimulate an immune response. The presence of the pigment melanin offers protection from UV rays from sunlight. Exposure to the sun allows the skin to build up melanin which allows for more protection, melanin also aids to the breakdown of folic acid. Too much sun exposure can result in damage to the skin and wrinkles are formed (Betts, J. G., et al).
Another key feature of the skin is thermoregulation, this is so that the body can maintain a constant temperature.
A constant temperature is vital for cellular enzymes within the body to be able to operate properly. This negative feedback system is controlled by the hypothalamus which sends signals to the skin to make changes in response to the temperature. When the body temperature falls the blood vessels in the dermis constrict which decreases the blood flow to the surface of the skin. The skin also has hairs that grow through it from hair follicles which grow through the epidermis and other layers of the skin. When the body temperature drops, the arrector pili muscle attached to the hair follicles contract and the hairs stand up causing “goose bumps” this allows for air to be trapped amongst the erect hairs and creates some insulation. Alternatively, when the body temperature rises above normal, the arterioles in the skin dermis are dilated which allows the body to lose more heat through an increase of blood flow. The skin has sweat ducts and glands which pass through it to allow the body to cool down as a result of a rise in temperature or during physical exercise. The negative feedback system is switched off when the core body temperature goes back to the normal range of 37
degrees.
The skin allows ourselves to physically feel. The skin has a sensory function which responds to stimulations such as touch, pain, pressure, and temperature. These stimulations are detected by the nerve endings located in the dermis and allow us to sense our surroundings and react accordingly. The skin helps us to make ourselves aware of harm, for example we could burn ourselves without knowing or potentially freeze ourselves. We are able to react and deal with danger or injury enabling us to survive. Additionally, the skin helps the body to absorb certain substances to filter into the blood stream. The skin can absorb certain medicines. The skin absorbs some drugs such as nicotine through patches placed on the skin in aid of stopping smoking.