skin
largest organ
physical barrier than protects internal organs
contains langerhans cells that sense and kill pathogens found on the skin
skin layers
epidermis
dermis
hypodermis
skin assessment
color
hydration (turgor)
lesions
impaired skin intergrity
inflammation
skin integrity
compromised when a client’s skin is irritated, inflamed, or open
increased risk of infection, loss of limb, or death
washing regularly helps in removing dead skin cells, oil, bacteria, feces or urine from the skin surface
skin breakdown
urine and bowel incontinence
hips, genitals, buttocks, perineum area are the most affected sites
mucous membranes
physical barrier to block pathogens from invading the body through tissues or blood
locations-> respiratory tract, digestive tract, urinary tract, eyes, nose
mucus is secreted by the mucosal membranes and traps pathogens and small particles
tooth anatomy and defense
enamel is the hardest material in the body and protects the teeth from pathogens and plaque
dentin lies beneath enamel and shields the pulp
primary roles of teeth
chew food->easy swallowing
provides support and structure to the face
shape facial appearance
assist in providing sound during speech
tooth decay
mouth bacteria produces acid
acid gradually dissolves enamel, which can lead to:
dental caries, infection, tooth lose
teeth and oral assessment
check conditions of teeth and gums for dryness
gums and mucosa inflammation
pain of oral mucosa
nail anatomy
nails protect the distal ends of the fingers and toes from injury
nails are made of layers of keratin
the cuticle surrounds the proximal and lateral edges of the nail
nail assessment
observe the nail size, shape, conditions of nails and nail bed
nail abnormalities:
cracking
clubbing
fungus
disabilties
clients may suffer from motor loss, weakness, or hemiplegia
clients may struggles to grab onto objects, reduced accuracy of movement, muscle fatigue, and coordination issues
increased risk for aspiration pneumonia associated with oral care->always assess ability to swallow firtst
assessments->balance, mobility, swallowing
stroke and affected extremity
it is not the weak or damaged arm!
be mindful of your words and how you address it
undress the unaffected side first, then the affected side
dress affected side first, then unaffected side
spinal cord injuries
may causes loss of ability to feel temps
have clients test water temps
remember to feel water with wrist or back of ungloved hand
utilize accessibility equipment to promote independence
increased risk for pressure injuries related to moisture, hard surfaces, and immobility
bariatric challenges
increased body weight and BMI
increased need for assistance with personal care due to increased comorbidities and functional abilities
assist clients in providing care while also promoting independence
deep skin folds may be found ion the groin, gluteus maximus under breast, behind the knees, elbows, ankles, and neck
at risk for excessive sweating and overheating
bariatric assessment
skin breakdown
rashes
friction
odors
excessive moistures with incontinence
fungal infection
dermatitis
dementia
patients conditions worsen over time and ultimately lead to inability to independently perform ADLs
decreases quality of life
non-traditional methods may be required to get the client to bathe: towel bathing or chair bath
ADLs
activity daily living
dementia assessments
the client”s ADL abilities, likes, dislikes, demanor
incontinence, current hygiene practices
oral health-> these patients are also a higher risk for aspiration pneomonia
amputation
accidents may happen at an increased risk related to injury while attempting ADLs
assistive devices are imperative for patients to decrease injury and promote independence
amputation interventions
provide/advocate for assistive devices
keep supplies near patient
implement safety precautions (non-slip mats)
amputation assessments
balance
strength
coordination
cultural and social considerations
preferences-clients may have a variety of routines and priorities related to their hygiene care
culture-some cultures have unique practices of hygiene, remain respectful and do not make assumptions
dignity-a clients only sense of control may be their hygiene practices, provide reassurance and allow for as much control as possible
socioeconomic status-hygiene may not be the top priority without basic resources, do not be judgemental and ensure adequate resources prior to discharge