Chapter 55
Assessment of Integumentary Function
The Skin
- The largest organ system of the body
- Is a barrier between the internal organs and the external environment and participates
in many vital body functions. - Protects internal body structures from harmful microorganisms and substances.
Structure of the Skin
- The skin is composed of three layers:
- The epidermis.
- The dermis.
- The subcutaneous fatty tissue.
The epidermis
- A layer of squamous epithelial cells.