1. describe the anatomy and physiology of the skin in relation to skin breakdown and the development of pressure sores
Skin is the largest organ of the body, covering and protecting the entire surface of the body. The total surface area of skin is around 3000 sq, providing protection to the body the skin has a host of other functions to be performed like regulating body temperature, immune protection, sensations of touch, heat, cold, and pain through the sensory nerve endings, communicating with external openings of numerous other body systems like digestive system, and respiratory system via mucous membranes. The skin is composed of three layers. The skin, which appears to be so thin, is still itself divided into epidermis, dermis, and subcutaneous layer or hypodermis. Each layer has its own function and own importance in maintaining the integrity of skin and thereby the whole body structure. Pressure sores or ulcers are the result of a constant deficiency of blood to the tissues over a bony area such as a heel which may have been in contact with a bed or a splint over an extended period of time. The surface of the skin can ulcerate which may become infected. Eventually tissues are damaged. Besides the heel, other areas commonly involved are the skin over the buttocks, ankles hips and other bony sites of the body.
2) Identify pressure sites of the body:
* Shoulders or shoulder blades
* Elbows
* Back of your ears
* Knees, ankles, heals, toes
* Spine
3) Identify factors which might put individual at risk of skin breakdown and pressure sores: Intrinsic risk factors:
* Mobility problems
* Poor nutrition
* Underlying health condition
* Over 70 years old
* Urinary/bowel incontinence
4) Describe how incorrect handling and moving techniques can damage the skin: Adjusted mobility aids. Equipment/Techniques; Possible Hazard *Chairs; Clients inability to get out of the chair
* Seat surface may cause uneven distribution of pressure, Perspiration or friction (Patient weight & size may cause pressure on arms and hips if too large for chair size) * Wheelchairs; Maybe ill-fitting causing pressure
* Tissue damage caused contact with protrusions such as footplates * Beds; Confinement to bed: Client unable to change position: * Mechanism used for sitting patients up may increase pressure on the sacrum. This is an issue for manual beds compared to profiling beds. * Shower/Commode Chairs; Client seated over
