Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What does autologel utilize in its treatment process?

1. Donor skin grafts

2. The patient's own platelets

3. Human cadaver skin

4. Synthetic tissue matrix

The correct answer is: The patient's own platelets

Autologel utilizes the patient's own platelets in its treatment process. This innovative approach harnesses the healing properties found in platelets, which contain growth factors crucial for tissue repair and regeneration. By concentrating the patient's platelets and using them in the treatment, Autologel encourages accelerated wound healing and tissue regeneration, effectively leveraging the body's own natural healing mechanisms. The use of autologous platelets minimizes the risk of rejection and complications associated with foreign tissues, as the material is derived from the patient themselves. This method also aligns with the principles of regenerative medicine, focusing on promoting healing rather than solely covering or substituting for damaged tissue. In contrast, donor skin grafts involve using skin from another person, which increases the risk of immune response and rejection. Human cadaver skin, while a viable option in some situations, involves ethical considerations and potential transmission risks. Synthetic tissue matrices, although useful in certain applications, do not utilize the body's own cells for healing, thus differing fundamentally from the concept of using autologous platelets.