Date: 24/01/2025
Time: 10:30pm – 02:30am
Title: The Integumentary System
I did self study on integumentary system which is the body’s outermost layer of protection. It consists of the skin, hair, nails and various glands such as sweat and sebaceous glands. The skin is the largest organ in the body and serves many functions including protection from pathogens, regulation of body temperature, sensation and vitamin D synthesis. The different layer of skin include epidermis, dermis and hypodermis. The hair, nails, sweat and sebaceous glands are also protective barriers for the body, composed of keratin and contribute to maintaining homeostasis
The Integumentary system does not only serve as a defence against external threat but also has crucial sensory functions. As a Nursing Associate understanding the skin and its functions is essential especially when treating dermatological issues and how the integumentary system’s ability to regulate temperature affects the body’s response to external stressors, or how poor skin health can signal nutritional deficiencies or weakened immune system.
Moving forward, I will ensure I promote skin health through proper hydration, hygiene and using of sunscreen for protection. I will also consider learning more about dermatological conditions and their management. And lastly working in a care home where most residents are immobile or have compromised health learning more about wound care and pressure ulcer prevention would be crucial for me.
KSB addressed:
K16: Understand body systems and homeostasis, human anatomy and physiology, biology, genomics, pharmacology, social and behavioural sciences as applied to delivery care
K19: Know how and when to escalate to the appropriate professional for expert help and advice
K23: Know how to meet people’s needs related to mobility, hygiene, oral care, wound care and skin integrity
K24: Know how to support people with commonly encountered symptoms including anxiety, confusion, discomfort, and pain
S4: Take responsibility for continuous self-reflection, seeking and responding to support and feedback to develop professional knowledge and skills
S26: Meet people’s need related to nutrition, hydration, bladder and bowel health
S27: Meet people’s needs related to mobility, hygiene, oral care, wound care and skin integrity