The concept of skin vulnerability

The vulnerability of the skin reflects the susceptibility of the skin barrier’s integrity and health due to the effects of a wide range of influencing factors, not only biological but also psychological and social. It therefore reflects a broader concept of health needs assessment rather than simply dermatological disease; this provides a wider basis for understanding the wide range of skin care needs met by health professionals. Skin vulnerability may result from difficulties such as the lack of self-care management skills, the influence of developmental factors (age and immaturity), stress and anxiety and the impact of socio-economic factors such as poverty and environmental factors, including climatic impact. The interplay of these factors can disrupt barrier functions of the skin, leading to breakdown, disease and further physical, psychological and social effects. The concept of skin vulnerability directly relates to that of nursing diagnosis (Assessment and planning care) that highlights the scope for nursing intervention.