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Essential Guide to Assessing Skin Turgor: A Step-by-Step Approach


Essential Guide to Assessing Skin Turgor: A Step-by-Step Approach

Skin turgor refers to the elasticity and resilience of the skin. It can be a useful indicator of hydration status and overall health. To check skin turgor, gently pinch a fold of skin on the back of the hand or forearm and hold it for a few seconds. The skin should quickly return to its original position when released. If the skin remains tented or takes several seconds to return to its original position, it may indicate dehydration or poor skin elasticity.

Skin turgor is an important indicator of health because it can provide clues about a person’s hydration status and overall health. Dehydration can occur when a person does not drink enough fluids or loses too much fluid through sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting. Poor skin turgor can also be a sign of malnutrition, certain medical conditions, or aging.

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