Question

Discuss three reasons for the nurse to be concerned about maintaining skin integrity Name at least three types of infections you are most curious about? Discuss how the assessment of the patient with burn dictate the subsequent care Please write 1 paragraph for each of the following (total 3 paragraphs) and make each paragraph no more than 6 sentences.

Answer 1

The reasons for the nurses to be concerned about maintaining skin integrity are

• To prevent decubitus ulcer ,pressure resulting from pressure,friction, incontinence ,moisture etc.,
• To prevent infection (bacteria,fungi, virus,parasite invasion )
• Protecting the internal organs from any external injury

Types of infection are

• Bacterial infection :This is the most common infection occurring in the healthcare sector to any person due to lack of hygienic practices (hand hygiene ) e.g., MRSA infection
• Fungal infection :This infection makes the skin red,itchy,scaly on the skin surface.If not treated may lead to deeper skin.e.g.,Cutaneous Candidiasis by Candida albicans
• Viral infection : This makes the skin reddened,painful blisters ,often severe symptoms are associated with systemic reactions.e.g., Herpes zoster infection

The assessment of the patient with burn are

• The patient has to be assessed for the causative factor of burns (fire,chemicals)
• Complete physical examination of the patient to be done (airway ,breathing, skin and neurological assessment, % TBSA

The care should focus on

• Monitor vitals to plan for care and assess for any hypothermia,hypoxia, hypotension.
• Prevention of infections due to open wounds by following asepsis in yhe procedure and care
• Prevention of injury as patient  may have loss sensation in case of nerve damage and prone for accidental injury
• Maintain the fluid status of the patient (IV as per order)
• Provide personal hygienic care to the patient.