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

What is the primary purpose of a skin graft?

1. To provide nourishment to the wound

2. To cover a viable but nonhealing wound bed

3. To improve circulation to the area

4. To facilitate faster healing through exposure

The correct answer is: To cover a viable but nonhealing wound bed

The primary purpose of a skin graft is to cover a viable but nonhealing wound bed. Skin grafts serve to provide a protective layer over a wound that is unlikely to heal on its own due to various factors, such as inadequate blood supply, infection, or underlying conditions affecting the healing process. By placing a graft over the wound, it promotes a controlled environment that aids in the healing process and can stimulate the formation of new tissue. This option highlights the significance of skin grafts in the treatment of wounds that require additional support for healing, particularly when natural processes alone are insufficient. Properly placed skin grafts can facilitate healing by preventing infection, reducing pain, and promoting the regeneration of healthy tissue by creating a suitable surface for epithelial cells to migrate. In contrast, the other options do not accurately capture the core purpose of a skin graft in the context of wound care. While nourishment and circulation may play roles in overall wound healing, they are not the main functions of skin grafts. Additionally, faster healing through exposure does not align with the established role of skin grafts, which are intended to provide coverage and protection rather than to be exposed to the external environment.