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

What happens during the reestablishment phase of partial thickness wound repair?

1. Collagen formation

2. Epithelial cell proliferation

3. Restoration of normal skin layers and thickness

4. Increased inflammation

The correct answer is: Restoration of normal skin layers and thickness

During the reestablishment phase of partial thickness wound repair, the primary focus is on the restoration of normal skin layers and thickness. This phase occurs after the inflammatory response and involves the complex processes that lead to the healing and resurfacing of the damaged tissue. During this phase, the body repairs the skin by regenerating the epidermis and restoring the integrity of the skin barrier. The epithelial cells migrate across the wound bed to cover the area and establish a new layer of skin. This process is essential in returning the skin to its normal structure and function, which is critical for proper healing and protection against external pathogens. The other options focus on aspects that are either not specific to this phase or relate instead to earlier or later stages of wound healing. For example, collagen formation may be more prominent in the remodeling phase, while increased inflammation would typically be associated with the initial inflammatory phase of healing. Thus, the key characteristic of the reestablishment phase is indeed the successful restoration of the skin layers and thickness, which is essential for optimal wound healing outcomes.