Identification of Location of Thick Skin and Number of Layers

A five-year-old boy is rushed to the emergency room for a nail that has penetrated his skin. As the PA observes the location of the nail, she makes the comment, “thank goodness you have thick skin there…”. Where is thick skin located on the body and how many layers does it consist of?
Group of answer choices
Arm pits and pubic region, 4 layers
Elbows and knees, 5 layers
Cranium and lumbar region, 6 layers
Hands and feet, 5 layers
Explain your answer. Your explanation must be cited and referenced in APA format.

  Identification of Location of Thick Skin and Number of Layers Thick skin is primarily located on the hands and feet of the human body and consists of 5 layers. Thick skin is characterized by the presence of an additional layer, the stratum lucidum, which is not found in thin skin. According to the textbook "Histology: A Text and Atlas" by Michael H. Ross and Wojciech Pawlina, thick skin is predominantly found on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. The thick skin in these regions is necessary to withstand mechanical stress and friction encountered during daily activities. Furthermore, "Wheater's Functional Histology" by Barbara Young et al. explains that thick skin consists of five layers: stratum corneum, stratum lucidum, stratum granulosum, stratum spinosum, and stratum basale. This additional layer, the stratum lucidum, contributes to the thickness and durability of the skin in areas subjected to constant pressure and abrasion. In summary, based on the location where thick skin is crucial for protection against mechanical stress and the number of layers it comprises, the hands and feet with 5 layers best match the description provided in the scenario where a young boy's skin is commended for being thick enough to withstand a nail penetration.

Sample Answer