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scalp

The skin and tissue that cover the top of the head, where the hair grows.

SKALP noun

What it means

The layer of skin, connective tissue and muscle over the skull. It has a rich blood supply, so even small scalp cuts can bleed a lot. Common scalp problems include dandruff and seborrheic dermatitisseb-uh-REE-ik der-muh-TY-tisA common, long-lasting inflammation of the skin in oily areas such as the scalp, face and chest.seb/o sebum, skin oil-rrhea flowderm skin-itis inflammationFull entry , head lice and ringworm. In labor, a fetal scalp electrode can be clipped to the baby's scalp to monitor the heart rate.

For the nurse

Part the hair to look at the scalp for lesions, lice, flaking or pressure areas, especially in clients who lie in bed for long periods. Apply firm pressure to a bleeding scalp wound.

At a glance

Spanishcuero cabelludo

Related terms

laceration

A cut or tear in the skin or other tissue, often with jagged edges.

seborrheic dermatitis

A common, long-lasting inflammation of the skin in oily areas such as the scalp, face and chest.

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