Nursing Preparation Study Guide

Nursing Preparation Study Guide • Hair: The functions of hair include warmth and protection. In animals, hair has many other important functions, such as camouflage. Hair develops from keratin and it grows from the hair follicles that rise from the epidermis. Once hair leaves the follicle, it is “dead”. Attached to the hair follicle is a sebaceous gland that lubricates the hair and the erector pili muscle that causes hair to stand up, like when you have goosebumps. • Nails: Nails protect the delicate fingertip from injury and aid in finger movements. The condition of nails is also a good indicator of general health. A nail consists of a nail plate, nail matrix, and nail bed. o Nail plate cells grow in the cell matrix and push older nail plate cells forward. o The nail plate is the actual nail, which is made of keratin, a strong, flexible material composed of layers of dead cells. o The nail bed is similar in structure to the skin, as it contains a dermis and epidermis. Hypodermis: The hypodermis, or subcutaneous layer, is often associated with the skin. The hypodermis is tissue beneath the dermis that connects it to underlying tissues. The connective tissue fibers of the reticular layer are extensively interwoven with those of the hypodermis; the boundary between the two is indistinct. Although the hypodermis is not part of the integument, it is important in stabilizing the position of the skin in relation to underlying tissues, while permitting independent movement. The hypodermis consists of areolar and adipose tissues, and is quite elastic. • Its main function is to attach the skin to bone and muscle, and supply the skin with blood vessels and nerves. The main cells contained within the hypodermis are fibroblasts, macrophages, and adipocytes, or fat cells. The hypodermis contains 50% of the body’s fat and is essential for padding and insulation for the body. 6.3.3 Common Diseases and Disorders • Allergic reactions: The skin will often respond with a red rash when exposed to an allergen. An allergen can be swallowed, inhaled, injected, or touched. Common allergens include stings and animal fur. • Boil: A boil, or furuncle, develops from a bacterial infection in the hair follicle. • Carcinomas: This is the medical term for cancer. The skin is subject to several kinds of carcinomas, basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, as well as melanomas. o Basal cell carcinoma is the most common type of skin cancer. Although it rarely kills, it is considered malignant because it can cause a lot of damage as it invades surrounding tissues. o Squamous cell carcinoma is also a common cancer and can develop on the skin and other parts of the body. The cells involved in this type of carcinoma continue to divide uncontrollably. o A melanoma is a malignant tumor comprised of melanocyte cells, which produce melanin. Many melanomas are visible as changes to existing moles or the appearance of a new lesion on the skin.

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