$$\text{Skin weight} = 0.16 \times 70\ \text{kg}$$

Question 1

Which of the following is NOT a function of the integumentary system?

Accepted Answer

Production of red blood cells

Question 2

A patient presents with severe dehydration after extensive burns. Which function of the skin has been compromised?

Accepted Answer

Prevention of water loss

Question 3

Which layer of the skin provides the most effective physical barrier against water loss?

Accepted Answer

Stratum corneum

Question 4

Sebum, produced by oil glands in the skin, primarily serves which function?

Accepted Answer

Retards bacterial multiplication due to its low pH

Question 5

Which of the following substances can penetrate the skin most easily?

Accepted Answer

Lipid-soluble substances

Question 6

A person exposed to poison ivy experiences a skin reaction. This is due to the penetration of which type of substance?

Accepted Answer

Plant oleoresins

Question 7

Which cells in the epidermis are responsible for presenting foreign antigens to white blood cells?

Accepted Answer

Dendritic cells

Question 8

How does DNA in skin cells help protect against UV radiation?

Accepted Answer

Its electrons absorb UV radiation and convert it to heat

Question 9

Which of the following is a metabolic function of the skin?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of vitamin D

Question 10

A patient with a genetic defect in keratin production would most likely have problems with which skin function?

Accepted Answer

Physical barrier to water and water-soluble substances

Question 11

Which equation best represents the percentage of body weight made up by skin if a person weighs 70 kg and skin accounts for 16% of body weight?

Accepted Answer

$$	ext{Skin weight} = 0.16 	imes 70\ 	ext{kg}$$

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT considered an appendage of the integumentary system?

Accepted Answer

Liver

Question 13

Which skin secretion is most important for killing bacteria on the skin surface?

Accepted Answer

Sebum and defensins

Question 14

A person is unable to sense pain or temperature changes on their skin. Which function of the integumentary system is impaired?

Accepted Answer

Cutaneous sensation

Question 15

Which of the following best describes the role of melanin in the skin?

Accepted Answer

Defense against UV radiation damage

Question 16

Which of the following is a chemical barrier provided by the skin?

Accepted Answer

Low pH of skin secretions

Question 17

If a drug is designed to be absorbed through the skin, which property should it possess for maximum effectiveness?

Accepted Answer

Lipid solubility

Question 18

Which of the following best explains why the skin acts as a blood reservoir?

Accepted Answer

It contains extensive networks of blood vessels that can hold up to 5% of the body's blood volume

Question 19

Which of the following is a biological barrier in the skin?

Accepted Answer

Dendritic cells of the epidermis

Question 20

A patient is exposed to organic solvents that penetrate the skin. Which barrier has been breached?

Accepted Answer

Physical/mechanical barrier

The Integumentary System: Structure, Functions, and Protective Mechanisms

Study Guide - Practice Questions