Conclusion

This section has highlighted the significance of the assessment and planning process within dermatological care. Emphasis has been placed not on medical diagnosis, albeit important, but rather on the conceptualisation, description and categorisation of normal skin and then by contrast diseased skin through reference to the lesions and rashes commonly seen, to aid communication between health professionals and the patient. The process of assessment has been outlined and an illustration of the range of questionnaire and technological tools use to collect data. Then we have outlined the importance of effectively using data collected to inform clinical decisions and the planning and evaluation process. Finally, an outline has been given of common dermatological interventions used to manage and treating skin conditions and their sequelae. This section has set out the nature of dermatological and health-related needs and how these are assessed and subsequent care planned; these issues are then illustrated and discussed throughout the content, mainly focusing on common dermatological problems and their effective management.