An Introduction to Skin as an Interface: Implications for Interprofessional Collaboration and Whole-Person Care.

Abstract

To increase health care professionals' awareness and perceptions of the skin as one of the largest body organs with multidimensional aspects and significant implications for interprofessional collaboration in whole-person care. This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care. After participating in this educational activity, the participant should be better able to:1. Apply physiologic and integumentary knowledge to assessing common skin variations and problems.2. Summarize the results of the authors' literature review of the evidence regarding the emotional, psychosocial, cultural, and spiritual aspects of skin health and disorders. The skin reflects not only a person's physical state of health, but also the dynamic interplay of emotional and cultural influences. This article will increase health practitioner understanding of the skin and skin assessment by highlighting its multidimensional aspects and significant implications for interprofessional collaboration in whole-person care. Through a multidimensional assessment of the skin, practitioners can better understand the health story of each patient and intervene holistically to improve overall well-being and quality of life.