Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What is the primary goal of the inflammatory phase of full thickness wound repair?

1. Control bleeding and establish a clean wound bed

2. Promote epithelialization

3. Begin collagen synthesis

4. Form new blood vessels

The correct answer is: Control bleeding and establish a clean wound bed

The primary goal of the inflammatory phase of full thickness wound repair is to control bleeding and establish a clean wound bed. This phase is the body's initial response to injury, where hemostasis occurs to prevent blood loss, and inflammatory cells are recruited to the site of injury. During this phase, platelets aggregate to form a clot, which not only serves to stop the bleeding but also acts as a temporary barrier to infection. The inflammatory response involves the release of signaling molecules that attract immune cells, such as neutrophils and macrophages, to the wound site. These cells play a crucial role in clearing debris, bacteria, and damaged tissue, effectively preparing the wound bed for the subsequent phases of healing. By controlling bleeding and establishing a clean wound environment, the inflammatory phase sets the stage for the proliferative phase that follows, where new tissue will be formed. Thus, the focus on hemostasis and clearing the wound is essential for promoting effective and efficient healing in the following stages.