Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

Who is most likely to benefit from growth factor therapy?

1. Patients with surgical wounds

2. Individuals with neuropathic foot ulcers

3. Those suffering from venous ulcers

4. Patients with infected wounds

The correct answer is: Individuals with neuropathic foot ulcers

Growth factor therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals with neuropathic foot ulcers primarily because these types of ulcers often experience impaired healing due to nerve damage, specifically in patients with diabetes. The application of growth factors can stimulate cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and the formation of granulation tissue, thereby enhancing the healing process in these challenging wounds. Neuropathic foot ulcers are associated with a lack of sensation in the foot, making them prone to injury and complications, which can hinder the natural healing process. Growth factor therapy addresses this by promoting healing at a cellular level, which is crucial for restoring function and preventing further complications such as infections or amputations. While other options involve wounds that may also benefit from different therapeutic approaches, neuropathic ulcers have shown significant improvement with growth factor applications due to their unique healing requirements and underlying pathophysiology. Hence, the focus on this group underscores the targeted benefit of growth factor therapy in managing complex wound healing scenarios.