Where should the nurse assess skin color changes in the dark-skinned patient
A letter published earlier this year in the British Journal of Dermatology reported on a literature review of articles describing ‘cutaneous manifestations’ of COVID-19. Show
Nursing Standard. 35, 10, 67-68. doi: 10.7748/ns.35.10.67.s21 Already subscribed? Log inORUnlock full access to RCNi Plus todaySave over 50% on your first 3 monthsYour subscription package includes:
RCN student member? Try Nursing Standard StudentAlternatively, you can purchase access to this article for the next seven days. Buy now Skin assessment in dark pigmented skin: a challenge in pressure ulcer preventionDigital Edition: Skin assessment in dark pigmented skin: a challenge in pressure ulcer prevention 02 August, 2010 The classic signs of skin damage are different in Caucasian and dark pigmented skin. Advice on how to identify pressure ulcers in dark skin is provided To continue reading this clinical article please log in or subscribe. Subscribe for unlimited access
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Register Already have an account, to sign in This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this website you are giving consent to cookies being used. For information on cookies and how you can disable them visit our Privacy and Policy. Cathy Thomas Hess is president and director of clinical operations of Wound Care Strategies, Inc., in Harrisburg, Pa. Adapted from Hess CT. Performing a skin assessment. Adv Skin Wound Care. 2008;21(8):392. Nursing 40(7):p 66, July 2010. | DOI: 10.1097/01.NURSE.0000383457.86400.cc
A SKIN ASSESSMENT captures the patient's general physical condition, based on careful inspection and palpation of the skin and documentation of your findings. Here are some components of a good skin assessment. Obtain a history of the patient's skin condition from the patient, caregiver, or previous medical records. Go over the detailed family history with the patient or patient's family, and make sure all skin conditions are reviewed. Also obtain a history of the patient's bathing routine and skin care products. Document the soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions, oils, and other topical products that the patient uses routinely. Ask the patient: Document your findings in the medical record. This includes assessment of skin color, moisture, temperature, texture, mobility and turgor, and skin lesions. Inspect and palpate the fingernails and toenails, noting their color and shape and whether any lesions are present. Skin lesions can be categorized as primary or secondary, although the distinction isn't always clear. Make sure you use the correct term to describe any lesions you find. The following are primary lesions: Secondary lesions can be caused by disease progression, overtreatment, excessive scratching, or infection of a primary lesion: In long-term-care facilities, the most common skin problems are xerosis and pruritus. Between 59% and 85% of patients over age 64 have dry skin. More than 70% of patients who are hospitalized and 90% of nursing home residents over age 65 have dry skin. Many factors contribute to dry skin, including a low-humidity environment, the patient's personal habits (smoking, alcohol intake, and poor nutrition), seasonal changes, chronic diseases, medications, and skin cleaners. Xerosis is the most frequent cause of pruritus. The patient's skin may be rough and scaly, with dryness occurring most often over the lower legs, hands, and forearms. Skin dryness isn't usually associated with a dermatologic condition or systemic disease. Scratching can cause excoriations, which can progress to secondary eczema or a skin infection. Once you've assessed and documented the condition of your patient's skin, you can formulate an appropriate care plan to maintain skin integrity. |