Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What is the primary role of neutrophils in the inflammatory phase of wound healing?

1. To stimulate collagen synthesis

2. To initiate angiogenesis

3. To phagocytize bacteria and debris

4. To promote epithelialization

The correct answer is: To phagocytize bacteria and debris

Neutrophils play a crucial role in the inflammatory phase of wound healing by primarily acting to phagocytize bacteria and debris. This phase is characterized by the body's immediate response to tissue injury, and neutrophils are typically among the first responders to the site of the wound. Their primary function is to engulf and digest pathogens and dead tissues, which helps to clear the wound of any potential infection and begins the process of creating an environment conducive for healing. Phagocytosis by neutrophils not only eliminates harmful microorganisms that could impede healing but also releases signaling molecules and cytokines that can recruit other immune cells to the site, thereby amplifying the inflammatory response if necessary. This is critical in managing infections and preparing the wound bed for the subsequent phases of healing. The other roles referenced in the other choices, such as stimulating collagen synthesis, initiating angiogenesis, and promoting epithelialization, are associated with later phases of wound healing. Collagen synthesis is primarily driven by fibroblasts, angiogenesis involves the formation of new blood vessels typically facilitated by other cells like endothelial cells, and epithelialization reflects the process where skin cells migrate to close the wound, all of which occur after the initial inflammatory response has taken place.