Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What factors promote epithelial cell proliferation in wound healing?

1. High bacterial counts and infection

2. Dry wound environment and high glucose levels

3. Clean, moist wound bed with low bacterial counts

4. Exposure to air and oxygen

The correct answer is: Clean, moist wound bed with low bacterial counts

Epithelial cell proliferation is a crucial aspect of wound healing, as it helps in re-establishing the integrity of the skin or mucosal surface. A clean, moist wound bed with low bacterial counts is optimal for this process. In a clean environment, the presence of fewer bacteria reduces the risk of infection, which can significantly hinder healing and lead to complications. Moisture is vital as it facilitates the migration of epithelial cells across the wound surface, allowing for faster closure. Additionally, a moist environment prevents the formation of a scab, which can act as a barrier for new cells trying to migrate over the wound. Healthy tissue hydration supports cellular functions and metabolism, further promoting healing. In contrast, factors such as high bacterial counts and infection can impede healing by causing inflammation and tissue injury. A dry wound environment and high glucose levels can also be detrimental to cell activity and proliferation, leading to delayed healing. Finally, exposure to air and oxygen can be beneficial in some contexts, but it can also lead to desiccation of the wound, which is not conducive to epithelial cell proliferation. Therefore, maintaining a clean, moist wound bed with low bacterial counts optimally supports the natural healing process by fostering an environment conducive to epithelial cell growth.