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

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Prepare for the Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions with detailed explanations to enhance your readiness for the exam day!

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Which layer of the skin is primarily composed of type 1 collagen?

  1. Papillary dermis

  2. Reticular dermis

  3. Epidermis

  4. Subcutaneous layer

The correct answer is: Reticular dermis

The reticular dermis is primarily composed of type 1 collagen, which provides strength and structure to the skin. This layer lies beneath the papillary dermis and is much thicker, consisting of dense connective tissue. Type 1 collagen is crucial for the skin's tensile strength and resilience, making the reticular dermis essential for maintaining the structural integrity of the skin. In contrast, the papillary dermis is made up of a looser arrangement of collagen fibers, mainly type 3 collagen, which contributes to its flexibility and allows for the rich vasculature and sensory structures found in this layer. The epidermis, being the outermost layer of skin, does not contain collagen itself but is primarily composed of keratinocytes. Lastly, the subcutaneous layer, while important for insulation and energy storage, is mainly comprised of adipose tissue and not primarily collagen. Understanding the composition of different skin layers and the specific roles of type 1 collagen highlights the importance of the reticular dermis in overall skin health and resilience.