Skin Care
General Guidelines for Skin Care
1. An intact, healthy skin is the body’s first line of defense
2. The degree to which the skin protects the underlying tissues from injury depends on the amount of subcutaneous tissue and the dryness of the skin.
3. Moisture in contact with the skin can result in increased bacterial growth and irritation.
4. Body odors are caused by resident skin bacteria acting on the body secretions. Cleanliness is the best deodorant.
5. Skin sensitivity to irritation and injury varies among individuals and in accordance with their health.
6. Agents used for skin care have selective actions and purposes. E.g. soap, detergent, bath oil, cream, lotion, powder, deodorant, and antiperspirant.
Common Skin Problem
Abrasion
Superficial layers of the skin are scraped or rubbed away. Area is reddened and may have localized bleeding or serous weeping.
Prone to infection; therefore, wound should be kept clean and dry.
Do not wear rings or jewelry when providing care to avoid causing abrasions to clients.
Lift, do not pull, a client across a bed.
Use two or more people for assistance.
Excessive Dryness
Skin can appear flaky and rough.
Prone to infection if the skin cracks; therefore, provide alcohol-free lotions to moisturize the skin and prevent cracking.
Bathe client less frequently; use no soap, or use nonirritating soap and limit its use. Rinse skin thoroughly because soap can be irritating and drying.
Encourage increased fluid intake if health permits to prevent dehydration.
Ammonia Dermatitis (Diaper Rash)
Caused by skin bacteria reacting with urea in the urine. The skin becomes reddened and is sore.
Keep skin dry and clean by applying protective ointments containing zinc oxide to areas at risk (e.g., buttocks and perineum).
Boil an infant’s diaper or wash them with an antibacterial detergent to prevent infection. Rinse diapers well because detergent is irritating to an infant’s skin.
Acne
Inflammatory condition with papules and pustules.
Keep the skin clean to prevent secondary infection.
Treatment varies widely.
Erythema
Redness associated with a variety of conditions, such as rashes, exposure to sun, elevated body temperature.
Wash area carefully to remove excess microorganisms.
Apply antiseptic spray or lotion to prevent itching, promote healing, and prevent skin breakdown.
Hirsutism
Excessive hair on a person’s body and face, particularly in women.
Remove unwanted hair by using depilatories, shaving, electrolysis, or tweezing.
Enhance client’s self concept.
