Chapter 5: The Integumentary System

What is the main function of the skin?

To provide protection for the inner organs

Which layer of the skin is well vascularized and has numerous nerve fibers?

Dermis

What is the role of keratinocytes in the skin?

Producing and shedding dead skin cells

Which component of the integumentary system is responsible for providing overall protection to the body?

The skin Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of melanocytes in the skin?

Producing melanin for skin pigmentation Signup and view all the answers

Which layer of the skin is the deepest and is composed of connective tissue?

Hypodermis Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason passive heat loss is prevented when the skin temperature drops?

The internal organs and structures remain warm Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary cause of the thinning and sagging of skin as a person ages?

Reduction and redistribution of fat in the hypodermis Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason for the reduced sweating ability in the elderly?

Lowered activity of the accessory structures Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a change that occurs in the integumentary system as a person ages?

Increased production of sebum and sweat Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for the thinner epidermis in aged skin?

Decreased mitosis in the stratum basale Signup and view all the answers

How does the aging process affect the ability of the skin to withstand extreme heat?

Reduced sweating ability makes the elderly intolerant to heat Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the dermis?

To provide structural support and nourishment Signup and view all the answers

Which layer of the dermis is composed of loose, areolar connective tissue?

Papillary layer Signup and view all the answers

What are the finger-like projections from the papillary layer called?

Dermal papillae Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the reticular layer of the dermis?

To provide structural support Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a component of the dermis?

Melanocytes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of cosmetic procedures like microdermabrasion?

To remove the dry, upper layer of the epidermis Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of melanocytes in the epidermis?

To produce melanin, giving color to hair and skin Signup and view all the answers

How are fingerprints formed during fetal development?

By the interaction between the stratum basale and the papillary layer Signup and view all the answers

Why are fingerprints unique to each individual?

Because the patterns do not change with growth and aging Signup and view all the answers

What is the characteristic feature of the stratum spinosum?

The spiny appearance due to protruding cell processes Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of desmosomes in the stratum spinosum?

To strengthen the bond between cells Signup and view all the answers

What is the function of Langerhans cells in the stratum spinosum?

To act as macrophages and engulf bacteria, foreign particles, and damaged cells Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of treating burn patients with intravenous fluids and nutrients?

To help the body repair tissues and replace lost proteins Signup and view all the answers

Which factor makes burned skin highly susceptible to infections?

Loss of protection by intact layers of skin Signup and view all the answers

What is characteristic of a first-degree burn?

The skin may be painful and swollen Signup and view all the answers

How are burns measured in terms of the size of the total surface area affected?

By the 'rule of nines' Signup and view all the answers

What happens in a second-degree burn?

It affects both the epidermis and dermis Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes a third-degree burn?

It fully extends into the epidermis and dermis Signup and view all the answers