Question

A clients epidermis has insufficient melanin. Which nursing diagnosis is appropriate?

1)
Risk for Infection
2)
Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity
3)
Risk for Deficient Fluid Volume
4)
Impaired Skin Integrity

Answer 1

The appropriate nursing diagnosis for a client with insufficient melanin is 'Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity' due to increased vulnerability to sun damage and potential skin breakdown.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a client's epidermis has insufficient melanin, the most appropriate nursing diagnosis would be Risk for Impaired Skin Integrity. Melanin provides protection against UV radiation, and insufficient melanin may lead to increased vulnerability to damage from the sun, which can impair the skin's integrity. Further, patients with conditions such as albinism or vitiligo, which affect melanin production, may experience increased skin sensitivity and risk for skin cancers due to the lack of melanin's protective function. Nursing care should focus on protecting the skin from damage, particularly from the sunlight, and monitoring for signs of skin breakdown or injury.