Reference no: EM133788597

Question

A skin assessment is important as it can diagnose primary conditions, but also gives clues as to other underlying conditions. It is important to complete a thorough general skin assessment with any comprehensive visit. Just as with vital signs you need this assessment for a baseline comparison and to assess for changes in the skin, hair and nails. To complete a skin assessment, first complete a history as well as ask about any current concerns. Then assess the patient in a sitting position. Start from the head and follow to the feet and toes as you would with any full body assessment. include inspection of the hair and scalp, head and neck, all components of the face and inside the oral cavity. Assess the shoulders, arms and hands and palpate the fingers including capillary refill and inspect between the digit. Inspect the anterior things and legs, ankles and feet, including soles and toenails as well as in between the toes. The second part of the assessment should be completed standing. Inspecting the lower back, posterior thighs and legs. As you are inspecting and palpating you are taking note of color, symmetry, any lesions.