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Josephine G Paterson
The integumentary system: anatomy,
physiology and function of skin
McLafferty E et al (2012) The integumentary system: anatomy, physiology and function of skin.
Nursing Standard. 27, 3, 35-42. Date of acceptance: April 13 2010.
Abstract
This article, which forms part of the life sciences series, examines
the anatomy and physiology of skin, also termed the integumentary
system. Skin is composed of two main layers, the epidermis and
dermis. The structure of the epidermis and dermis are described
and their functions are discussed. Accessory structures, such as
nails and hair are also considered. Although many diseases of the
skin exist, two common conditions – psoriasis and decubitus ulcers –
are described in this article.
Authors
Ella McLafferty
Retired, was senior lecturer, School of Nursing and Midwifery,
University of Dundee.
Charles Hendry
Retired, was senior lecturer, School of Nursing and Midwifery,
University of Dundee.
Alistair Farley
Lecturer in nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery,
University of Dundee.
Correspondence to: a.h.farley@dundee.ac.uk
Keywords
Anatomy and physiology, body systems, integumentary system,
skin and skin disorders
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© NURSING STANDARD / RCN PUBLISHING september 19 :: vol 27 no 3 :: 2012  35
p35-42w3.indd 35
The skin is a complex arrangement of
structures with a range of different, but important,
functions. The skin is composed of two main
layers, the epidermis and dermis (Waugh and
Grant 2010, Tortora and Derrickson 2009a).
The subcutaneous layer is found beneath the
dermis and is not considered part of the skin
(Tortora and Derrickson 2009a).
Nurses need to be knowledgeable about what
is considered to be healthy skin (Pringle and Penzer
2002). This is important, as the condition of the
skin may often be a sign of underlying disease
(Casey 2002). Changes in the skin may be one
of the first indicators of an underlying health
problem. Many nurses will be familiar with
cyanosis where, because of poor delivery of oxygen
to the tissues, the patient’s skin appears blue.
Structure of the skin
The skin is the largest organ in the body,
accounting for approximately 16% of the total
body weight of an adult (Tortora and Derrickson
2009a). The skin weighs twice as much as the
brain, approximately 3-5kg (Turkington and
Dover 2007). Skin varies in thickness according
to function and area of the body. On the eyelids,
the skin is only 0.5mm thick, whereas it can be
as much as 3-4mm thick on the soles of the feet
(Brooker 1998). Skin is generally 1-2mm thick
(Tortora and Derrickson 2009a).
The skin consists of thick outer layers, a
widespread system of sweat glands sensitive
to temperature changes and an extensive layer
of fatty tissue under the surface of the skin. The
skin also contains many cells that are sensitive
to touch, pain, pressure, itching and temperature
(Turkington and Dover 2007).
 
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