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

Which factor is NOT favorable for promoting wound healing?

1. Normal amount of growth factors

2. Healthy wound bed

3. High bacterial counts

4. Normal levels of MMPs

The correct answer is: High bacterial counts

High bacterial counts are detrimental to wound healing because they can lead to infection, which severely impairs the body's ability to heal. When bacteria proliferate in a wound, they can trigger an inflammatory response that can further damage tissues and delay the healing process. Additionally, infections can consume available nutrients and oxygen that are crucial for the healing response and can also lead to complications requiring more aggressive interventions. In contrast, factors such as a normal amount of growth factors, a healthy wound bed, and normal levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are all conducive to wound healing. Growth factors play essential roles in cell proliferation and tissue regeneration. A healthy wound bed supports granulation tissue formation and provides an optimal environment for healing. Normal levels of MMPs are important as they help in the turnover of extracellular matrix components, balancing tissue remodeling while avoiding excessive degradation that can stunt healing.