NURSING FUNDAMENTALS
Skin Integrity & Wound Care
COMPREHENSIVE STUDY GUIDE
Topics Covered:
1. Structure of the Skin
2. Functions of the Skin
3. Skin Integrity — Definition & Factors
4. Threats to Skin Integrity
5. Maintaining Skin Integrity
6. Wound Classification & Types
7. Wound Assessment Parameters
8. Cleaning & Dressing Wounds — 15-Step Procedure
9. Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT)
10. Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
, SECTION 1 — Structure of the Skin
The skin is the body's largest organ, serving as a critical barrier against environmental hazards, regulating
temperature, and providing sensory information.
LAYER DESCRIPTION & FUNCTION
Epidermis Outermost layer — acts as a barrier against environmental hazards
(bacteria, viruses, chemicals, UV radiation)
Dermis Layer beneath the epidermis — houses blood vessels, nerves, and
hair follicles; supports skin structure and function
Hypodermis Deepest layer — composed of fat and connective tissue; provides
(Subcutaneous) insulation, cushioning, and energy storage for internal organs
SECTION 2 — Functions of the Skin
1. Protection
Barrier Against Pathogens: The skin acts as a physical barrier preventing entry of harmful
microorganisms — bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Chemical Protection: Shields the body from harmful chemicals and toxins in the environment.
UV Radiation Protection: Melanin (pigment in the skin) absorbs and dissipates UV radiation, reducing
risk of DNA damage and skin cancer.
2. Regulation
Temperature Regulation: Sweating and vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) releases heat;
vasoconstriction (narrowing of vessels) retains heat.
Water Balance: Prevents excessive water loss via transepidermal water loss (TEWL), maintaining
hydration and fluid balance.
3. Sensation
Touch and Pressure: Sensory receptors detect touch, pressure, and vibration — allowing interaction with
the environment.
Pain: Nociceptors detect painful stimuli, signaling potential harm and protecting the body from injury.
Temperature: Thermoreceptors detect temperature changes, providing feedback for homeostasis.
Skin Integrity & Wound Care
COMPREHENSIVE STUDY GUIDE
Topics Covered:
1. Structure of the Skin
2. Functions of the Skin
3. Skin Integrity — Definition & Factors
4. Threats to Skin Integrity
5. Maintaining Skin Integrity
6. Wound Classification & Types
7. Wound Assessment Parameters
8. Cleaning & Dressing Wounds — 15-Step Procedure
9. Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT)
10. Quick Reference Cheat Sheet
, SECTION 1 — Structure of the Skin
The skin is the body's largest organ, serving as a critical barrier against environmental hazards, regulating
temperature, and providing sensory information.
LAYER DESCRIPTION & FUNCTION
Epidermis Outermost layer — acts as a barrier against environmental hazards
(bacteria, viruses, chemicals, UV radiation)
Dermis Layer beneath the epidermis — houses blood vessels, nerves, and
hair follicles; supports skin structure and function
Hypodermis Deepest layer — composed of fat and connective tissue; provides
(Subcutaneous) insulation, cushioning, and energy storage for internal organs
SECTION 2 — Functions of the Skin
1. Protection
Barrier Against Pathogens: The skin acts as a physical barrier preventing entry of harmful
microorganisms — bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Chemical Protection: Shields the body from harmful chemicals and toxins in the environment.
UV Radiation Protection: Melanin (pigment in the skin) absorbs and dissipates UV radiation, reducing
risk of DNA damage and skin cancer.
2. Regulation
Temperature Regulation: Sweating and vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) releases heat;
vasoconstriction (narrowing of vessels) retains heat.
Water Balance: Prevents excessive water loss via transepidermal water loss (TEWL), maintaining
hydration and fluid balance.
3. Sensation
Touch and Pressure: Sensory receptors detect touch, pressure, and vibration — allowing interaction with
the environment.
Pain: Nociceptors detect painful stimuli, signaling potential harm and protecting the body from injury.
Temperature: Thermoreceptors detect temperature changes, providing feedback for homeostasis.
