1.6 Describe changes to an individual’s skin condition that should be reported

This guide will help you answer 1.6 Describe changes to an individual’s skin condition that should be reported.

As a care worker, recognising changes to an individual’s skin condition and reporting them early is essential. Skin is not just the body’s largest organ; it also acts as a barrier, protecting internal organs and regulating body temperature. When the skin shows changes, it can indicate underlying health issues or signal the need for immediate attention.

This guide cover some of the common skin changes and explains why reporting them is essential for the individual’s health.

Redness or Discolouration

Unusual redness (erythema) or skin discolouration can suggest various problems. It may indicate:

• Pressure sores: Prolonged pressure can restrict blood flow, causing the skin to become red. If redness persists even after the pressure is relieved, it may mean damage underneath the skin.
• Allergic reactions: Sudden red patches or welts may point to an allergy. This could result from medications, skincare products, or exposure to allergens.
• Infections: Redness spreading around a wound can indicate an infection such as cellulitis, which needs medical care.

If you notice patches of skin that appear red, purplish, or darker than normal depending on an individual’s skin tone, it is important to document and report this immediately.

Swelling or Puffiness

Swelling around a specific area of the skin could indicate various concerns. It may suggest inflammation, infection, or fluid retention. Swelling often accompanies other changes, like warmth or redness, and could require medical investigation.

If an individual has swollen areas that weren’t present before, you must report it as soon as possible. Leaving swelling unaddressed can worsen the condition.

Rashes

Rashes are common signs of irritation or infection. They may vary in appearance, including flat areas, raised bumps, or blisters. Causes include:

• Infections: Skin infections like fungal conditions or viral infections (e.g., shingles) often cause rashes.
• Skin diseases: Eczema and psoriasis can present as scaly or itchy patches.
• Medication side effects: Some drugs lead to rashes as an allergic or adverse reaction.

Document the location, size, and appearance of the rash before reporting it. Also, note whether the rash is accompanied by symptoms like itching, fever, or spreading to other areas.

Open Wounds or Sores

Skin breakdowns that lead to open wounds or sores should always be reported. These could include:

• Pressure ulcers: These develop from prolonged pressure, leading to small sores that can deepen over time.
• Leg ulcers: Commonly linked to poor circulation, diabetes, or immobility.
• Surgical wounds: Any changes in how such wounds heal, like unclosed edges or discharge, may indicate complications.

Leaving open sores untreated can increase the risk of infection or cause further complications. Take time to observe and report if wounds seem to worsen or are not healing as expected.

Bruising

Bruises happen when small blood vessels under the skin break. Some bruising is normal following minor injuries. However, unexplained bruising or bruising in unusual places can be a concern. Possible causes include:

• Falls or injuries: Frequent bruising may indicate mobility issues or balance problems.
• Medication: Blood-thinning medications can lead to more extensive bruising.
• Health conditions: Some illnesses affect blood clotting or make skin more fragile, causing easy bruising.

If an individual develops bruises without a clear reason, especially over sensitive areas, you must report this. It could uncover underlying issues like abuse, falls, or undetected health problems.

Dryness or Cracking

Very dry or cracked skin can become uncomfortable and prone to serious problems like infections. Cracked heels, lips, or hands might result from:

• Dehydration
• Use of drying products like soaps
• Skin conditions, e.g., eczema

Look out for areas where the skin appears flaky, tight, or split open. This is particularly important for individuals with conditions like diabetes, where even small cracks can result in severe infections.

Excessive Sweating or Dampness

Changes in how much an individual sweats can indicate underlying health problems. Profuse sweating for no obvious reason (e.g., without heat or physical activity) or overly dry skin can be a sign of:

• Hormonal imbalances: Related to menopause, thyroid problems, or stress.
• Infections: Accompanied by fever and chills, this could suggest conditions like sepsis.

If you observe unusual changes like excessive dampness or dryness, communicate these to a supervisor or healthcare professional.

Lumps, Bumps, or Growths

Any unusual lump, bump, or growth on the skin should be noted and reported. This might include:

• Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs under the skin.
• Moles or freckles: Changes in their size, shape, or colour could signal skin cancer.
• Skin tags: These are benign but worth monitoring for irritation or growth.

Lumps that are painful, growing, or show changes like bleeding or crusting need urgent investigation.

Changes in Skin Temperature

Abnormal skin temperature in particular areas can also serve as a warning sign. Examples include:

• Warm areas: Might indicate infection or inflammation.
• Cold areas: Could suggest reduced circulation or blood flow.

Use touch to assess whether any part of the skin feels unusually warm or cold compared to surrounding areas. Report such changes promptly.

Itching or Tingling

Persistent itchiness or tingling under the skin could be uncomfortable for the individual and point to other issues, such as:

• Allergies: May result from food, medication, or environmental triggers.
• Nerve problems: Conditions like shingles or diabetes could cause tingling sensations.
• Infections or infestations: Scabies, fungal infections, or lice can lead to intense itching.

Record how often the person reports itching or tingling and if this is localised to specific areas of their body.

Unusual Skin Colour Changes

Skin tone can sometimes provide clues about a person’s overall health. Pay attention to:

• Yellow skin: Known as jaundice, it could indicate liver problems.
• Blue or purple skin: May suggest a lack of oxygen in the blood, common in heart or lung conditions.
• Pale skin: Could mean anaemia or poor circulation.

Such changes need to be highlighted so their underlying cause can be addressed urgently.

Skin Peeling or Shedding

Peeling or unusually shedding skin might be a response to:

• Sun damage: Causes blisters and peeling after exposure to UV rays.
• Infections: Fungal infections and conditions like scarlet fever could lead to peeling.
• Reactions to treatments: Chemotherapy or radiation can make skin fragile and prone to shedding.

This is another change that requires prompt reporting to ensure it doesn’t worsen.

Things to Record Before Reporting

When reporting any skin condition changes, it helps to provide clear, accurate, and detailed observations. Consider these points:

• Where is the issue located?
• What does the area look like (e.g., redness, bump, blister)?
• Does the individual report pain, itching, or other symptoms?
• How long has the issue been present?
• Has the skin condition spread, worsened, or improved recently?

Always document these details in line with workplace policies.

Final Thoughts

Prompt reporting helps prevent minor conditions from becoming major problems. It ensures the person receives the care or treatment they need. Early intervention can reduce risks like infections, pain, immobility, or long-term damage. It also promotes better health outcomes overall, especially for individuals who may be unable to communicate changes themselves.

Good communication between you, other carers, and healthcare professionals keeps individuals safe. Skin conditions can escalate quickly, so being observant and timely with your reports is a crucial part of your role in supporting their well-being.