Skin Examination and Anatomy

<p>Hair changes (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To rule out other possible causes of the skin condition (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Dermatology (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To avoid infection (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>All of the above (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Post herpetic neuralgia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Individuals over 70 years old (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Within the first 3 days of symptoms (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Location of lesions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Urticarial rash (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Psoriasis eruption in an area of local trauma (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Chicken pox (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Paracetamol and cooling creams or gels (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Non-blanching red/purple spots (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To confirm normal skin tone and colour (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To provide a basis for future comparisons (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Post-herpetic neuralgia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Unilateral and dermatomal (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To uphold professional ethics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Aspirin in children under 16 (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>The skin's ability to return to its original position (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Raised hemispherical lesions containing clear/purulent fluid (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To understand the rash's distribution pattern and its implications (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Keep hydrated and take cool baths (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To identify possible underlying systemic conditions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To identify potential allergens or irritants (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>Adjust your approach to ensure the patient's comfort (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To identify signs of dehydration or fever (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

<p>To identify potential allergens or irritants (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Inflammation can cause skin color changes, either darkening (hyperpigmentation) or lightening (hypopigmentation).

Rashes can appear in different patterns, like straight lines (linear), circles (annular), clusters (grouped), or in areas of previous skin damage (Koebner phenomenon).

Rashes can be flat, raised, or sunken in the skin, and have various textures like soft, firm, hard, or even feeling like you can move fluid around (fluctuating) or very stiff (sclerosed).

A rash is considered uniform throughout (monomorphic) or with many different appearances (pleomorphic), indicating varying stages or forms.

A flat, slightly raised red spot on the skin that is usually less than 1 cm in diameter.

A small, raised bump on the skin that is usually less than 1 cm in diameter.

A rash with flat macules and tiny raised papules, often blanching with pressure (turning white when pressed). It can be a sign of various infections like measles, rubella, scarlet fever, or Lyme disease.

A condition characterized by very thick, scaly skin all over the body. It can signal serious illnesses like toxic shock syndrome or Kawasaki syndrome.

Itchy, pink welts or hives on the skin that can appear and disappear quickly. They are often caused by infections, food or drug allergies, or environmental factors.

Raised lesions containing clear or pus-filled fluid. These can be signs of bacterial infections or severe conditions like Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

Chickenpox starts as small red spots, then develops into itchy blisters that eventually form scabs.

Chickenpox symptoms can be managed with hydration, cooling treatments, and medications like antihistamines, paracetamol (acetaminophen). Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin in children under 16.

Shingles involves a painful, burning, or tingling sensation followed by a rash on one side of the body. The rash develops into itchy blisters that eventually crust over.

Shingles can be very serious for people with weakened immune systems. If diagnosed within 72 hours, antiviral medications can be used to help fight the virus.

A careful skin exam involves observing the patient's skin, understanding their needs, and respecting their dignity. During the exam, note the skin's appearance, temperature, moisture, texture, and any color variations.

Skin turgor measures how quickly the skin returns to its original position after being pinched. Reduced turgor can be a sign of dehydration or certain medical conditions.

A good medical history captures important details about the skin condition, including when it started, where it is located, any associated symptoms, and treatments attempted.

SOCRATES is a framework for guiding history taking questions about the rash. It stands for Site, Onset, Character, Radiation, Associated symptoms, Time course, Exacerbating/relieving factors, Severity.

The initial assessment of the patient begins from the moment you enter the room; even how they walk can provide insights.

Adequate lighting and privacy are crucial during a skin exam. Use a combination of visual inspection, touching (palpation), and even using your sense of smell to gather information.

When documenting a skin exam, record the size of the rash, whether it looks symmetrical, whether it's tender to touch, and its texture.

Pallor is a pale skin color that can indicate anemia or poor circulation. Cyanosis is a bluish tint to the skin that may indicate low oxygen levels. Erythema is redness of the skin, often caused by inflammation or infection. Jaundice is a yellowish discoloration of the skin, often a sign of liver problems. Hyperpigmentation is increased skin pigmentation, while hypopigmentation is a loss of skin pigmentation.

The temperature of the skin can be an important clue to systemic issues. Look for areas of warmth or coolness and consider the potential causes.

The texture of the skin should be examined for any abnormalities compared to the patient's normal texture.

It's important to be attentive to new or changing rashes, allergic reactions, infections, and wounds on the skin. Always check for recent exposures or contacts that may be contributing to the skin condition.

Pay attention to where the rash is located on the body (distribution), when it started (timing), and if there are any accompanying symptoms like itchiness or pain.