Question

he elimination patterns of our patients are very important to know as we continue to assess and do our care plans. How can impaired elimination affect the integumentary system?

Please make an initial post by midweek, and respond to at least two other student's posts with substantial details that demonstrate an understanding of the concepts, and critical thinking. Remember that your posts must exhibit appropriate writing mechanics including using proper language, cordiality, and proper grammar and punctuation. If you refer to any outside sources or reference materials be sure to provide proper attribution and/or citation.

Answer 1

There are so many conditions that leads to impaired elimination pattern, For example let us take the case in incontinence, where the patient is unable to control the release of urine or stool.

The integumentary system is an organ system consisting of the skin, hair, nails, and exocrine glands. The skin is only a few millimeters thick yet is by far the largest organ in the body. The skin is commonly at risk to get problems when exposed to urine or feces regularly.

The following are the types of injuries that affects the skin due to frequent exposure to urine and feces:

Maceration

Over-exposure to moisture can cause the skin to become macerated (waterlogged), which makes the skin very fragile. This added fragility puts the skin at greater risk for damage caused by friction, shear, and pressure. Once skin is macerated, even gentle rubbing by bed linens, diapers, and wash cloths can cause injury.

Incontinence Dermatitis

A common condition related to incontinence is incontinence dermatitis. Otherwise known as perineal dermatitis or diaper rash, this condition affects all age groups from infancy to old age. Perineal dermatitis involves the irritation and breakdown of the skin as a result of over-exposure to moisture and chemicals in urine and feces.

Bacterial Infection

Another risk associated with incontinence is bacterial growth and infection. Incontinence allows the skin's surface to come in contact with bacteria from waste products. This is particularly dangerous for the elderly whose skin may be characteristically dry. Dry skin provides an opportune breeding ground for bacterial growth since micro-organisms can be absorbed through skin cracks and fissures.

Exposure To Caustic Agents

One of the caustic agents contained in urine is ammonia. Ammonia increases the pH of the skin causing irritation. Ammonia is also used by bacteria as a source of nutrition, contributing to the reproduction of more micro-organisms. Individuals with fecal incontinence are at an even higher level of risk for bacterial colonization of the skin.

Fungal Infection

The damp, warm skin environment generally associated with incontinence is ideal for the proliferation of pathogenic fungi. A skin rash that is fiery red, itches, and burns is usually of fungal origin.