Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What role do growth factors play in wound healing?

1. They promote collagen synthesis

2. They attract neutrophils, macrophages, and fibroblasts

3. They inhibit inflammation

4. They facilitate epithelial cell migration

The correct answer is: They attract neutrophils, macrophages, and fibroblasts

Growth factors play a crucial role in the wound healing process, primarily by attracting key immune and repair cells to the site of injury. Specifically, they serve as signaling molecules that recruit neutrophils, macrophages, and fibroblasts, which are essential for initiating the healing response. Neutrophils are among the first responders that help to clean the wound by eliminating debris and pathogens. Macrophages have a critical role in inflammation and also stimulate tissue regeneration and repair. Fibroblasts are pivotal in synthesizing extracellular matrix components, which are essential for tissue structure and repair. While growth factors do also influence other aspects of healing, such as stimulating collagen synthesis and facilitating epithelial cell migration, their primary initial action is to bring these healing cells to the wound site, activating the processes necessary for successful healing. Without the attraction of these key cells, the wound healing process would be significantly impaired, making this role of growth factors particularly vital.