Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What describes the re-establishment of normal skin layers post-wound?

1. Blood clot formation

2. Skin grafting

3. Normal skin layers and thickness restoration

4. Continuous inflammation

The correct answer is: Normal skin layers and thickness restoration

The re-establishment of normal skin layers post-wound is accurately described by the restoration of normal skin layers and thickness. When a wound heals, the body initiates a complex process involving various stages: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. During the proliferation phase, new tissue is formed, leading to the regeneration of the skin layers. This includes re-epithelialization, where keratinocytes migrate to cover the wound, as well as the production of collagen and extracellular matrix, which provide structural support. The goal is to restore the skin to its pre-injury state, meaning that normal skin layers and their thickness must be reestablished. This means that the skin will regain its protective barrier function and appearance akin to that prior to injury. This comprehensive process is essential for optimal wound healing and the prevention of complications like infection or excessive scarring. In contrast to this, blood clot formation occurs at the wound's onset to stop bleeding but does not relate to the final healing phases of skin restoration. Skin grafting is a procedure utilized in severe wounds where normal healing cannot occur, and it involves transplanting healthy skin to cover the wounded area rather than the natural restoration process. Continuous inflammation indicates prolonged inflammatory responses that can hinder healing rather