The Integumentary System

Structure and Function

The integumentary system simply means the system for the protection of the body. The system includes skin, hair, and nails on it. The integumentary system is considered the first barrier that germs have to go through to intrude the body. As the first protector of the body, the main function of the system is to protect the body from outside environments and damages that can be harmful. Also, it can control the body temperature to keep it constant through perspiration while excreting wastes of the body at the same time. Absorbing impacts to protect the body from damage is one of its functions. To improve protection of the body, it has many sensory receptors to sense pressure, temperature, touch, pain to react swiftly to damages before they cause severe problems. Additionally, it produces vitamin D with ultraviolet rays from the sun.

Layers of the Skin

Epidermis - the outermost layer of skin
Dermis - a thicker layer of skin that lies beneath the epidermis
Hypodermis -the innermost layer

Conditions that Require Emergency Care

Puncture wounds caused by sharp objects that cut or tear the skin.
Scrapes caused by rough objects
Bruises
Burns caused by extreme heat
Extreme cold injuries
Bee stings
Spider bites
Snake bites
Ticks

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