Elements of a Basic Skin Assessment

To perform a basic skin assessment, the clinician must, at a minimum, assess its temperature, color, moisture, turgor, and integrity. Consider the following criteria.

Temperature

* normally warm to the touch

* warmer than normal could signal inflammation

* cooler than normal could signal poor vascularization

Color

* intensity: paleness may be an indicator of poor circulation

* normal color tones: light ivory to deep brown, yellow to olive, or light pink to dark, ruddy pink

* hyperpigmentation or hypopigmentation reflect variations in melanin deposits or blood flow

Moisture

* dry or moist to touch

* hyperkeratosis (flaking, scales)

* eczema (endogenous or exogenous?)

* dermatitis, psoriasis, rashes

* edema

Turgor

* normally returns quickly to its original state

* slow return to its original shape may indicate dehydration or effect of aging

Integrity

* no open areas

* type of skin injury (use appropriate classification system to identify and record injury type)

Source: Baranoski S, Ayello A. Skin: an essential organ. In: Baranoski S, and Ayello EA. Wound Care Essentials: Practice Principles. Springhouse, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2004. p 47-60.