Question

How should the RN explain the mechanism that causes the skin to become reddened from prolonged exposure to cold?

a) Increased blood flow to the skin's surface
b) Decreased blood flow to the skin
c) Activation of pain receptors
d) Depletion of oxygen in the skin cells

Answer 1

The skin becomes reddened from prolonged exposure to cold due to increased blood flow to the skin's surface.

Step-by-step explanation:

The mechanism that causes the skin to become reddened from prolonged exposure to cold is increased blood flow to the skin's surface.

When the body is exposed to cold temperatures, the blood vessels in the skin constrict to minimize heat loss. However, prolonged exposure to cold causes the blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood flow to the skin. This increased blood flow leads to the reddening of the skin.

For example, during strenuous physical activities like skiing or running, the dermal blood vessels dilate to prevent the body from overheating. Similarly, in response to low temperatures, the dermal blood vessels constrict to minimize heat loss.