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

Which factors are known to affect neoangiogenesis?

1. O2 levels in wound bed and hydration status

2. O2 levels in wound bed and age

3. O2 levels in wound bed and infection

4. O2 levels in wound bed and antiseptic use

The correct answer is: O2 levels in wound bed and age

Neoangiogenesis, the process of new blood vessel formation, is influenced by several factors that can significantly impact wound healing. The correct choice identifies that both oxygen levels in the wound bed and age play important roles in this process. Oxygen levels in the wound bed are critical as adequate oxygen is essential for various cellular functions and processes that contribute to healing, including angiogenesis. Hypoxia, or low oxygen conditions, can stimulate the production of growth factors necessary for neovascularization. In mature tissues, age can also have a profound effect; older individuals may experience decreased angiogenic response due to a decline in metabolic rates and altered cellular responses. The interplay between these two factors means that an older individual may have a less effective response to hypoxia, potentially leading to complications in wound healing that stem from impaired neoangiogenesis. This understanding is vital in a clinical setting, as healthcare providers can tailor treatment plans considering a patient’s age and the oxygenation status of their wound to promote effective healing.