Authors

  1. Hess, Cathy Thomas BSN, RN, CWOCN

Article Content

Elements of a Basic Skin Assessment

To perform a basic skin assessment, the clinician must, at a minimum, assess its temperature, color, moisture, turgor, and integrity. Consider the following criteria.

 

Temperature

 

* normally warm to the touch

 

* warmer than normal could signal inflammation

 

* cooler than normal could signal poor vascularization

 

Color

 

* intensity: paleness may be an indicator of poor circulation

 

* normal color tones: light ivory to deep brown, yellow to olive, or light pink to dark, ruddy pink

 

* hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation reflect variations in melanin deposits or blood flow

 

Moisture

 

* dry or moist to touch

 

* hyperkeratosis (flaking, scales)

 

* eczema (endogenous or exogenous?)

 

* dermatitis, psoriasis, rashes

 

* edema

 

Turgor

 

* normally returns quickly to its original state

 

* slow return to its original shape may indicate dehydration or effect of aging

 

Integrity

 

* no open areas

 

* type of skin injury (use appropriate classification system to identify and record injury type)

 

Source: Baranoski S, Ayello A. Skin: an essential organ. In: Baranoski S, and Ayello EA. Wound Care Essentials: Practice Principles. Springhouse, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004. p 47-60.