A burn patient with extensive skin damage experiences increased susceptibility to bacterial infections. Which mechanism explains why this occurs in the compromised integumentary system?

💡 Explanation

Skin barrier function protects against external threats. Disruption of the epidermal barrier permits direct bacterial invasion because the physical blockade is compromised. Therefore, option C is correct, rather than the other options related to UV protection, nutrient depletion, or increased microbial food sources that do not directly address barrier failure.

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