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

What is the process of contraction in wound healing?

1. Occurs in closed wounds to restrict movement

2. Only happens in open wounds to reduce size

3. Involves the formation of granulation tissue

4. Involves the development of necrotic tissue

The correct answer is: Only happens in open wounds to reduce size

The process of contraction in wound healing is primarily associated with the body's response to a wound, aiming to reduce its size, which typically occurs in open wounds. This process is executed by specialized cells called myofibroblasts, which interact and pull the edges of the wound together. While contraction can happen in closed wounds, it is most noticeable and significant in open wounds where the tissue is exposed and the need for closure is more pronounced. It plays an essential role in minimizing the area that needs to heal, thereby accelerating the overall healing process and promoting more efficient tissue repair. This natural mechanism reduces the size of the wound, allowing for improved healing dynamics and functionality. The other options refer to processes that do not represent the contraction mechanism accurately. For instance, while granulation tissue is essential in the healing process, it does not directly relate to contraction as it forms in a different phase of healing. Necrotic tissue, on the other hand, indicates dead tissue which can hinder healing rather than facilitate contraction. Thus, recognizing that the primary role of contraction is to close open wounds underscores the significance of this process in effective wound healing.