title: Examining threats to skin integrity.
abstract: Intact skin serves a vital role in maintaining homeostasis of the body and is regarded as the body's first line of defense against invading micro-organisms. The skin's barrier function can be jeopardized or threatened by several events: aging, dryness, bathing technique, activities of daily living, and soaps. In this paper, the authors review the structures of the skin that facilitate moisture retention and examine bathing practices that threaten the integrity of the skin. Finally, wound and skin care nurses, as well as generalist nurses, are encouraged to critically review the type of soap and the techniques used for bathing.
authors.affiliation: Bryant Rolstad Consultants, LLC, 2001 University Ave. SE, Suite 200, Minneapolis, MN 55414, USA. brc@citilink.com
authors.forename: R A
authors.initials: RA
authors.lastname: Bryant
authors.forename: B S
authors.initials: BS
authors.lastname: Rolstad
mesh_terms: D000375:Aging / Q000502:physiology; D001494:Baths; D001834:Body Water; D006801:Humans; D017592:Skin Care; D012879:Skin Physiological Phenomena; D012915:Soaps; D013501:Surface-Active Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D014947:Wounds and Injuries / Q000451:nursing*
chemical_list: D012915:Soaps; D013501:Surface-Active Agents