The skin, the largest organ of the
body, consists of two layers-the epidermis and dermis. The depth or
degree of burn depends on which layers of skin are damaged or destroyed.
The epidermis is the outer layer that forms the protective covering. The
thicker or inner layer of the dermis contains blood vessels, hair
follicles, nerve endings, sweat and sebaceous glands. When the dermis is
destroyed, so are the nerve endings that allow a person to feel pain,
temperature, and tactile sensation.
The most important function of the skin is to act as a barrier
against infection. The skin prevents loss of body fluids, thus
preventing dehydration. The skin also regulates the body temperature by
controlling the amount of evaporation of fluids from the sweat glands.
The skin serves a cosmetic effect by giving the body shape.
| FUNCTIONS OF THE SKIN
- Acts as a barrier against infection.
Prevents loss of body fluids. Regulates the body temprature. Serves as a cosmetic effect.
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When the skin is burned these functions are impaired or lost completely.
The severity of the skin injury depends upon the size of the injury,
depth of the wound, part of the body injured, age of the patient, and
past medical history. Because of the importance of the skin, it becomes
clear that injury can be traumatic and lifethreatening. Recovery from
burn injury involves four major aspects: burn wound management, physical and occupational
therapy, nutrition, and emotional support.
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