Final answer:
The advanced practice registered nurse's recommendation to use sunblock to protect aging skin from ultraviolet exposure is based on the pathologic changes due to aging of the integumentary system.
Step-by-step explanation:
The advanced practice registered nurse's recommendation to use sunblock to protect aging skin from ultraviolet exposure is based on the pathologic changes due to aging of the integumentary system.
As a person ages, the skin undergoes several changes, including decreased cell division, metabolic activity, and blood circulation. These changes result in a thinner epidermis and reduced regeneration ability of the dermis, making aging skin more vulnerable to damage from UV radiation.
Sunblock or sunscreen helps to partially block UV radiation and prevent damage to the skin. By using sunblock, older patients can protect their skin from the harmful effects of UV exposure, such as premature wrinkling, brown discolorations, and an increased risk of skin cancer.