Integumentary System Functions

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Questions and Answers

In the context of integumentary system function, which scenario best encapsulates the principle of maintaining homeostasis?

  • Increased melanocyte activity in response to prolonged UV exposure, leading to tanning.
  • Increased keratinocyte production in the stratum corneum, resulting in thicker skin.
  • Vasodilation of dermal blood vessels during exercise, facilitating heat dissipation to maintain core body temperature. (correct)
  • Activation of Langerhans cells upon detection of foreign antigens, initiating an immune response.

Considering the structural attributes of the epidermis, which of the following scenarios would most severely compromise its primary function as a protective barrier?

  • Localized damage to the stratum granulosum, impairing the synthesis of keratohyalin granules.
  • Extensive blistering within the stratum spinosum due to impaired desmosome function. (correct)
  • Compromised blood supply to the stratum lucidum, leading to decreased cell turnover in this layer.
  • Selective ablation of melanocytes in the stratum basale, resulting in reduced melanin production.

In the context of dermal physiology, which statement most accurately reflects the interaction between its structural components and physiological function?

  • Decreased elastin fiber density leads to increased dermal thickness and enhanced skin turgor.
  • Compromised arrector pili muscle function impairs thermoregulation and enhances sensory perception.
  • Increased collagen cross-linking results in reduced tensile strength and increased susceptibility to tearing.
  • Dysregulation of fibroblast activity impairs wound healing and compromises the synthesis of extracellular matrix proteins. (correct)

In the context of hypodermal function, which of the following scenarios would most significantly impact whole-body energy homeostasis and thermal regulation?

<p>Extensive reduction in hypodermal thickness due to age-related atrophy of adipose tissue. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the functional roles of primary skin cells, what outcome would be most likely to result from impaired Langerhans cell activity?

<p>Increased susceptibility to cutaneous fungal infections due to compromised antigen presentation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does senile purpura arise from increased capillary fragility?

<p>Reduced elastin and collagen support leads to easier vessel rupture from minor trauma. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does decreased adherence between the epidermis and dermis exacerbate the risk of skin breakdown?

<p>Compromised basement membrane integrity causes shearing forces to easily separate skin layers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does reduced activity and number of sebaceous glands culminate in an elevated susceptibility to skin breakdown?

<p>Skin's protective lipid barrier diminishes, increasing transepidermal water loss and lowering flexibility. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which pathophysiological mechanism explains why decreased numbers of hair follicles correlate to reduced tactile discrimination?

<p>Reduced perifollicular innervation limits mechanoreceptor potential, diminishing sensory detection. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following cellular mechanisms contributes most significantly to the phenomenon of slowed wound healing observed in the geriatric population?

<p>Impaired fibroblast migration and collagen synthesis due to dysregulation of growth factor signaling. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTAP) classification system guide clinical decision-making in wound management?

<p>It differentiates treatments based on the degree of flap loss, influencing reapproximation strategies. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In an elderly patient with suspected arterial insufficiency in the lower extremities, which clinical finding would most strongly suggest a severe, chronic compromise of arterial blood flow?

<p>Deep, punched-out ulcers on the tips of toes with dry, necrotic bases and absent pulses. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best explains the pathophysiology underlying the chronic edema observed in patients with venous insufficiency?

<p>Elevated hydrostatic pressure in the venous system overwhelms reabsorption capacity, causing fluid transudation into tissues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which clinical feature is not typically associated with an arterial insufficiency wound?

<p>Significant wound drainage (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does peripheral neuropathy contribute to the development of foot ulcers in diabetic patients?

<p>Diminished sensation causes unrecognized trauma, leading to repetitive stress and tissue breakdown. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with a neuropathic ulcer on the plantar surface of their foot. Which underlying biomechanical factor is MOST likely contributing to the development of this ulcer?

<p>Pes cavus with rigid plantar fascia resulting in decreased shock absorption. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the Braden Scale, what is the rationale for assessing sensory perception as a risk factor for pressure ulcer development?

<p>Impaired sensory input reduces awareness of discomfort, preventing repositioning and pressure redistribution. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP) staging system, what feature distinguishes a Stage 3 pressure ulcer from a Stage 4 pressure ulcer?

<p>Full-thickness skin loss with visible adipose tissue versus exposure of muscle, tendon, or bone (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does frailty exacerbate the risk of complications and delayed recovery in geriatric patients undergoing surgical procedures?

<p>Diminished homeostatic capacity impairs the ability to withstand surgical insults, increasing vulnerability to adverse events. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Frailty is diagnosable with 3 or more indicators. Which of the following is not included?

<p>Hypertension (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Select the most accurate rationale for why decreased muscle mass (sarcopenia) in geriatric patients is a significant clinical concern.

<p>Muscle atrophy compromises functional capacity, increasing dependence and mortality. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Consider a patient admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). What potential sequelae related to integument health and mobility should be anticipated due to prolonged bedrest and immobility?

<p>Muscle atrophy contributing to contractures. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When evaluating the integumentary system of a patient with suspected arterial insufficiency, you note the presence of wounds on the distal lower extremity. Which of the following characteristics would further support your suspicion of arterial involvement?

<p>A dry wound bed with a surrounding area of shiny, hairless skin. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes the role of the long-term index of the average blood glucose level (Hemoglobin A1c) in wound healing?

<p>Elevated HbA1c levels are associated with an increased risk of ulceration and impaired wound healing. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A physical therapist is selecting interventions for an elderly patient with a Stage 2 pressure ulcer. Which intervention strategy would be LEAST appropriate during the initial phase of wound management?

<p>Performing vigorous massage around the ulcer to improve blood circulation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does proper positioning mitigate the risk of pressure ulcer formation, particularly in patients with limited mobility?

<p>Distributes weight evenly across bony prominences, reducing exposure to direct force. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of utilizing mobility assessment tools such as the Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool (BMAT) in the acute care setting?

<p>Enhance mobility in a safe and progressive manner while minimizing injury risk. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

WHich of the following would be the BEST indicator for a patient at BMAT Level 3 to progress to Level 4?

<p>Ability to tolerate ambulation with assistive device without changes in vital signs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The Posey Sitter Elite alarm is installed on the bed of a patient with a high risk for falls. What is the primary purpose for placing such a tool?

<p>To alert medical staff when patient attempts to get out of bed, minimizing falls and injury. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can clinicians best integrate Available Patient Transfer and Movement (APTA) guidelines into daily practice in an acute care setting?

<p>Promote safe environment and movement while educating patients and staff. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor MOST contributes to older adults having fragile capillaries?

<p>Decreased collagen and elastin (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A therapist is evaluating a burn patient who has limited supination. What is the best way to promote supination?

<p>Orthotics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is in a long term care facility. When would be the best time to use a ROHO cushion to prevent pressure ulcers?

<p>While the patient sits (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When looking at physiological responses to bed rest, which of the following is true?

<p>A decrease is bone mineralization (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum weight limit for safe patient handling to reduce health care professional injuries, according to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)?

<p>35 pounds (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do the anatomical and physiological changes associated with diabetes alter the presentation and management of arterial insufficiency wounds?

<p>There is reduced protective sensation that requires compensatory strategies to prevent repetitive trauma. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In an elderly patient presenting with reduced skin elasticity and flattening of epidermal/dermal projections, which of the following cellular mechanisms would be the MOST effective target for interventions aimed at restoring skin integrity?

<p>Pharmacological augmentation of fibroblast activity to enhance collagen and elastin synthesis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A geriatric patient exhibits decreased fine motor ability and delayed detection of harmful stimuli (hot/cold). Which neurophysiological change MOST directly underlies these clinical manifestations?

<p>Decreased sensory structures within the dermis. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following laboratory findings would MOST strongly contraindicate the use of compression therapy in the management of a venous leg ulcer?

<p>Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) of 0.6. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An elderly patient with a history of diabetes mellitus develops a neuropathic ulcer on the plantar surface of the foot. Which biomechanical factor is LEAST likely to contribute to the pathogenesis of this ulcer?

<p>Normal Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) values. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of pressure ulcer prevention, how does the assessment of 'activity level' within the Braden Scale contribute to risk stratification?

<p>It evaluates the patient's ability to independently reposition themselves, thereby reducing prolonged pressure on bony prominences. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following interventions would be MOST appropriate for managing a Stage 3 pressure ulcer with moderate depth? The goal is to facilitate moist wound healing and prevent further tissue breakdown.

<p>Packing the wound bed with intrasite gel, covering with NS damp gauze and a dry dressing. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A 75-year-old patient with a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is admitted to the hospital for an acute exacerbation. The patient is frail, with a FRAIL score of 3. Which intervention would be MOST appropriate to address this patient's weight loss?

<p>Provide small, frequent meals and nutritional supplements. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a patient with venous insufficiency, which of the following pathophysiological mechanisms MOST directly contributes to the development of haemosiderin staining in the lower extremities?

<p>Chronic venous hypertension leading to extravasation of erythrocytes and iron deposition. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An 80-year-old patient with a Braden Scale score of 16 is being discharged home. Which of the following interventions is MOST critical for preventing pressure injuries in the home setting?

<p>Educating the patient and caregivers on proper skin care and frequent repositioning techniques. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Based on the principles of safe patient handling, what is the MOST appropriate method for transferring a completely dependent patient from a bed to a chair, minimizing the risk of musculoskeletal injury to healthcare providers?

<p>Employing a mechanical lift with a sling, following manufacturer guidelines. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the physiological effects of bedrest, which of the following compensatory mechanisms is LEAST likely to be effective in mitigating the cardiovascular consequences of prolonged immobilization?

<p>Administration of low-dose diuretics to reduce fluid volume overload. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In an acute care setting, what is the MAIN goal of integrating mobility assessment tools such as the Bedside Mobility Assessment Tool (BMAT) into daily practice?

<p>To guide safe patient handling practices and prevent falls. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the primary mechanism by which 'Turn Assist' beds reduce the risk of pressure injuries?

<p>By intermittently rotating the patient to redistribute pressure and minimize prolonged compression of tissues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MOST critical component to assess when evaluating the appropriateness of a ROHO cushion for pressure injury prevention?

<p>Verification of proper inflation, ensuring adequate immersion and envelopment of bony prominences. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of burn management, which of the following strategies BEST promotes the restoration of forearm supination?

<p>Serial casting to gradually increase supination, combined with adjunctive therapies to lengthen soft tissues. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An elderly patient in a long-term care facility is at high risk for pressure ulcers. When is the OPTIMAL time to implement consistent use of a ROHO cushion?

<p>Upon admission to the facility as a proactive preventive measure. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following BEST describes the MOST significant impact of sarcopenia on overall physiological function in geriatric patients?

<p>Reduces functional capacity and increases risk of falls and disability. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Given the anatomical and vascular characteristics of arterial insufficiency, in what specific location are wounds MOST likely to manifest?

<p>Distal portions of the lower extremity. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

An elderly patient with diabetes mellitus presents with a non-healing ulcer on the plantar surface of their foot. What pathological processes are contributing to the delayed wound healing?

<p>Peripheral arterial disease and elevated blood glucose impairing leukocyte function and angiogenesis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following a thermal burn, which of the following physiological processes is the MOST critical for the epidermis to regain its protective function efficiently?

<p>The re-epithelialization. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What physiological factor contributes the MOST to older adults having fragile capillaries?

<p>Reduced subcutaneous fat and redistribution of fat (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A BMAT level 1 patient could BEST be described by what?

<p>Unable to assist (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the revised NIOSH lifting equation, what is the maximum weight limit for one person to lift safely?

<p>35 pounds (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The use of SPH equipment and principles has been MOST supported by what?

<p>Available evidence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When evaluating the FRAIL scale, what score would indicate a patient is frail?

<p>3 or greater (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements accurately reflects the recommendations for weightbearing activity post-skin graft on the lower extremity?

<p>Progressive weightbearing can be initiated after confirmation of graft adherence. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What would be the proper plan of care for an unstageable wound?

<p>Consult surgery. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the MAIN goal when turning a patient to avoid shear?

<p>To reduce friction while moving them. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

The following are categories of the Braden Scale, EXCEPT:

<p>Smoking History (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the importance of HbA1c level in wound healing?

<p>Elevated HbA1c indicates poor glycemic control, impairing the wound healing. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient is being treated for arterial insufficiency, and to enhance the healing process by focusing on lifestyle: which recommendation is MOST impactful?

<p>Smoking cessation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which anatomical layer of the skin is MOST responsible for imparting durability and flexibility, along with housing the hair follicles and sweat glands?

<p>Dermis (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Decreased activity and number of sebaceous glands in elderly patients results in:

<p>Increased skin irritation and dermatosis. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements BEST encapsulates the role of collagen in dermal physiology?

<p>Provides structural support and tensile strength, facilitating wound healing and tissue repair (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Following implementation of interventions a physical therapist observes a score progression in the BMAT tool from level 2 to level 3: What activity must be seen to progress the patient?

<p>Modified Plantigrade. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which anatomical feature is MOST critical for the Epidermis to maintain fluid balance and avoiding excessive water loss?

<p>Stratum Corneum. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In elderly patients, a key factor contributing to the delayed partial-thickness re-epithelialization observed after skin injuries?

<p>Decreased upward migration of epithelial cells and reduced desquamation. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

A patient presents with a lower extremity wound which the following is MOST indicative of a VENOUS wound?

<p>Irregular Borders. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How would you differentiate between the wound presentation of a full thickness burn and a deep partial thickness burn?

<p>Full thickness burns are characterized by insensate, dry, and inelastic presentation, while deep partial thickness burns present with easily unroofed blisters and variable colorations. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the complexities of geriatric skin and its response to trauma, what nuanced treatment approach would be MOST effective when managing a skin tear in a frail elderly patient with multiple comorbidities.

<p>Meticulous cleansing with a non-cytotoxic wound cleanser, gentle approximation of skin edges with steri-strips if possible, and application of a silicone-based dressing to promote moist wound healing while minimizing adhesive trauma. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Given the interplay between vascular compromise and wound development, which statement accurately represents the critical distinction between arterial and venous insufficiency wounds?

<p>Arterial insufficiency wounds have increased pain that worsens with elevation, and venous insufficiency wounds are painless with shallow, irregular borders. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Considering the multifaceted nature of neuropathic ulcers in diabetic patients, which factor is the MOST critical in the development of plantar ulcers?

<p>Progressive demyelination of large and small sensory nerve fibers reduces feedback from nociceptors and mechanoreceptors, limiting detection of harmful stimuli. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In a comprehensive evaluation of an elderly patient with a non-healing wound, the physical therapist notes an Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) value of 1.4 despite clinical signs suggestive of arterial insufficiency. How should the PT interpret this discordance?

<p>The elevated ABI is likely a false positive due to arterial calcification common in diabetes mellitus and chronic kidney disease; further vascular studies are warranted to rule out arterial occlusive disease. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Functions of the integumentary system

Maintain homeostasis, provide an immune barrier, and synthesize vitamin D.

Purpose of the Epidermis

Protects from infection, drying, maintains fluid balance, feedback for pain, touch and pressure, and is avascular with specialized cells.

Purpose of the Dermis

Responsible for skin durability and flexibility, prevents excessive loss of body heat, regulates body temperature, and is responsible for outer epidermis.

Skin: Hypodermis

This is the deepest layer of the skin and consists of subcutaneous tissue.

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Keratinocytes

Migrate through the epidermis, convert to dead keratinized cells that form the physical epidermal barrier.

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Fibroblasts

Synthesize collagen and elastin, primary cell involved in granulation formation for soft tissue repair/scar.

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Considerations of Aging Skin

Blood flow decreases, sensory structures decrease, elasticity decreases, thermoregulation decreases, and fragility of capillaries increase.

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Trauma

Wounds occur when forces (e.g., blunt, shear) exceed the tolerance of the tissue.

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Superficial partial thickness burn

Epidermis and upper part of the dermis is injured.

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Deep partial thickness burn

Epidermis and large upper portion of the dermis is injured.

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Full thickness burn

All skin layers are destroyed.

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Fourth degree burn

Complete destruction of epidermis and subcutaneous tissue with muscle damage.

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Skin Tears

A traumatic wound caused by mechanical forces, including removal of adhesives.

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Skin Tear Classification: Type 1

No skin loss; flap that can cover the wound bed when repositioned.

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Skin Tear Classification: Type 2

Partial flap loss; repositioning does not cover the wound bed.

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Skin Tear Classification: Type 3

Total flap loss; the whole wound bed is exposed.

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Arterial Compromise

Poor blood flow through arteries- can lead to ischemia, stroke, embolism- can be seen anywhere.

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Venous Compromise

Blood flow problems in veins- seen in lower extremities.

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Arterial Insufficiency Presentation

Skin is shiny, cool, and hairless with wounds in distal lower extremity.

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Arterial Insufficiency Wound

Distal portions of the lower extremity (e.g., tips of toes, foot, malleoli), little drainage, necrotic tissue may be present, pulses may be weak or absent, altered capillary refill, and PAINFUL.

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Associated Diagnosis for Venous Insufficiency

Lower extremity edema, chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins.

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Presentation of Venous Insufficiency

Edema and drainage with wounds in distal lower extremity.

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Venous Insufficiency Wound

Distal portions of the lower extremity (e.g., ankle and calf), shallow irregular borders, drainage present, normal capillary refill, PAINLESS, and Hemosiderin staining.

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Areas Effected by Neuropathic Wounds

In pressure areas of foot- metatarsal heads, heels, toes; plantar surface of foot.

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Pressure Ulcer Etiology

Anything touching the patient could cause skin breakdown.

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Braden Scale Categories

Mobility, activity level, sensory perception, nutritional status, exposure to moisture, friction and shear.

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Older Adult Wound Healing

Increased time of inflammation, tensile strength of a wound in older adult is less than younger adult, healed wounds will not exceed 70-80% of strength of original tissue, older adults with newly healed wound only have 15% of original skin strength.

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Frailty

Multiple definitions-physical frailty. Patients with this condition have an altered biology that makes them more vulnerable, if present, it is a prognostic indicator of poor outcomes, It manifests as multisystem physiologic decline, It is a clinical syndrome of weight loss, fatigue, and weakness.

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Operational Definition of Frailty

Low physical activity, Slow walking, Weak grip, Loss of 10 lbs in the past year, Self-report of exhaustion.

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Clinical Pictures of Frailty

Have a history of falls, have poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyle and don't get outside, muscle weakness is very common, depression/confusion, decreased gait speed, decreased strength, decreased balance, decreased endurance.

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ICU Survivor Issues-Frailty

Frailty has traditionally been associated with elderly individuals, frailty now a hot topic in acute care literature, frailty being studied in ICU and post-ICU patients.

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Sarcopenia

Loss of muscle mass can be attributed to old age

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Implications of M-S Changes

Encourage strength training exercise, encourage Wbing exercise, encourage movement toward end range, avoid “jarring" exercise, encourage the use of warm-up, educate our patients about modifiable risk factors for bone loss early.

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Chart review

Patient history, lab values, poor nutrition, ABI and angiograms

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Hemoglobin A1C

long-term index of the average blood glucose level

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Glucose

Long-term index of the average blood glucose level Increased blood sugar levels are associated with an increased risk of ulceration and impaired wound healing Levels fall rapidly with protein deficiency and malnutrition,Levels less than 3.2 mg/dL are associated with longer length of stay and increased complications, there is a positive correlation between low serum albumin and pressure injury severity

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Ankle Brachial Index

Ratio of systolic blood pressure at the ankle to the brachial systolic pressure.

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Wound History

Evaluate the wound. Understand what caused it, its characteristics, and contributing factors.

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Social Situation

Evaluate and address social aspects that could impede recovery.

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Systems Review

Consider the impact overall health and medications may have one wound.

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Cognition

Determine level of understanding and ability to participate. Assess safety awareness.

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Neurological Exam

Address any sensory or motor impairments, what are they capable of?

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ROM, MMT

Looking at how the effects their sensation and movement.

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Skin Integrity

How is the appearance and condition?

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Pulses

Edema, color, is it bad, average? Vancouver scar?

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Pressure Injury Screen

Any pressure injuries on the skin?

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Cardiopulmonary

How they breath?, do they have enough oxygen to move well?

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Diet

Make sure they have a healthy diet.

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Smoking History

Does the smoking impact blood quality and overall health?

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Mobility Assessment

If they are able to and there health allows evaluate movements safely.

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Study Notes

  • Traci Norris is the author of this presentation

Function of the Integumentary System

  • Maintains homeostasis, including fluid balance and thermoregulation
  • Provides an immune barrier
  • Synthesizes vitamin D

Purpose of Epidermis

  • Protects skin from infection and drying
  • Maintains fluid balance by preventing excessive evaporative water loss
  • Provides feedback for pain, touch, pressure, and sensation
  • Avascular
  • Has specialized cells

Purpose of Dermis

  • Responsible for skin durability and flexibility
  • Prevents excessive loss of body heat
  • Regulates body temperature
  • Responsible for outer epidermis, and wounds will not heal without it
  • Vascular and innervated layer
  • Contains hair follicles, sweat glands, blood vessels, and nerves held in place by collagen

Hypodermis or Subcutaneous

  • Deepest layer of the skin
  • Consists of subcutaneous tissue

Consideration of Aging Skin

  • Decreased blood flow to the area
  • Decreased sensory structure
  • Decreased elasticity
  • Decreased thermoregulation
  • Increased fragility of capillaries

Overview of Burn Classification

  • Wounds from trauma result when forces overwhelm tissue tolerance
  • Trauma includes thermal injury (burn/frostbite), animal bites, MVAs, falls, and skin tears

Newer Terminology for Depth of Burn Injury

  • Superficial partial thickness burns injure the epidermis and upper dermis
  • Deep partial thickness burns injure the epidermis and a large upper portion of the dermis
  • Full thickness burns destroy all skin layers
  • Fourth degree or subdermal burns completely destroy the epidermis, dermis, subcutaneous tissue, and muscle

Burn Depths

  • Superficial burns present as red and dry skin that blanch with pressure, with pain and heal in 3-6 days
  • Superficial partial thickness burns show moist blisters, are red, weeping, blanch with pressure, and are painful to temperature and air and heal in 7-21 days
  • Deep partial thickness presents with blisters that easily unroof, wet/waxy dry skin, variable color (patchy cheesy white to red) which does not blanch with pressure that perceive pressure only and require surgical treatment
  • Full thickness burns show waxy white to leathery gray/charred black, are dry and inelastic, with no blanching, no sensation, and are rare without surgical treatment
  • Deeper injuries extend to fascia and muscle, require deep pressure, and are surgically treated

Skin Tears

  • Skin tears are traumatic wounds caused by mechanical forces, including removal of adhesives (ISTAP)
  • Severity and prevalence rates vary

International Skin Tear Advisory Panel (ISTP) Classification

  • Type 1: No skin loss; flap can cover the wound bed when repositioned
  • Type 2: Partial flap loss; repositioning the flap does not cover the wound bed
  • Type 3: Total flap loss; the entire wound bed is exposed

Vascular Issues: Arterial Compromise

  • Arterial blood flow is poor in arteries and can lead to ischemia, stroke, or embolism
  • Can be seen anywhere

Vascular Issues: Venous Compromise

  • Problems with blood flow in the veins, usually seen in lower extremities

Arterial Insufficiency

  • Associated with Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD)
  • Risk factors include increased age, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, smoking, and high cholesterol
  • Presents as shiny, cool, hairless skin
  • Wounds occur in the distal lower extremity

Arterial Insufficiency Wound Characteristics

  • Location: Distal portions of lower extremity like tips of toes, malleoli or feet
  • Little Drainage
  • Necrotic tissue may be present
  • Weak or absent pulse
  • Altered capillary refil
  • Painful

Venous Insufficiency

  • Associated with lower extremity edema, chronic venous insufficiency, and varicose veins
  • Risk factors include high BMI, obesity, hypertension, and DVT
  • Presentation includes edema, drainage, and wounds in distal lower extremity

Venous Insufficiency Wound Characteristics

  • Location: Distal portions of lower extremity; ankle and calf
  • Shallow, irregular borders
  • Drainage present
  • Normal Capillary Refill
  • Painless
  • Hemosiderin staining

Neuropathic Conditions

  • Neuropathic wounds are associated with diabetes
  • Wounds appear in pressure areas of foot- metatarsal heads, heels, toes
  • Plantar surface of foot
  • Loss of protective sensation on monofilament (5.06)
  • 4.17 normal; 5.06 protective

Pressure Ulcers

  • Etiology: Anything touching the patient can cause skin breakdown
  • Pressure ulcers are often hospital-acquired
  • The Braden scale is used as a screening tool

Braden Scale Categories

  • Mobility, activity level, sensory perception, nutritional status, exposure to moisture, friction and shear
  • Each category is rated on a scale of 1-4 except friction and shear, which is 1-3
  • Total score is 23 points, with a higher score indicating a lower risk of developing an ulcer
    • Very High Risk: 9 or less
    • High Risk: 10-12
    • Moderate Risk: 13-14
    • Mild Risk: 15-18
    • No Risk: 19-23

Pressure Ulcer Staging

  • Staging was developed by National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP)
  • Based on anatomic depth of soft tissue with complete visualization for accurate staging
  • Wounds covered by eschar and slough are unstageable

Older Adult Wound Healing

  • Increased time of inflammation
  • Tensile strength of a wound in older adults is less than younger adults
  • Healed wounds will not exceed 70-80% of strength of original tissue; only 15% of original skin strength
  • Rate of re-epithelization decreases with age
  • Scar maturation takes longer

Frailty

  • Frailty has multiple definitions
  • Patients with this condition have an altered biology that makes them more vulnerable
  • The clinical syndrome presents as weight loss, fatigue, and weakness

Operational Definition of Frailty

  • Clinical syndrome with 3 or more of these:
    • Low physical activity (270kcal/wk women, 383 kcal/men)
    • Slow walking less than 0.65 m/sec 15 feet
    • Weak grip (23 lb women, 32 lb men, lowest 20% adjusted for gender and age)
    • Lose 10 lbs in the past year (unintentional)
    • Self-report of exhaustion (3 or more days/wk)
  • A person is prefrail if they meet 1-2 of the above

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