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

Which of the following describes the synthesis of collagen fibers during the healing process?

1. Decreased and chaotic

2. Constantly on hold

3. Active remodeling is absent

4. Regulated and phase-dependent

The correct answer is: Regulated and phase-dependent

The synthesis of collagen fibers during the healing process is best described as regulated and phase-dependent. This means that collagen production is not a random or chaotic endeavor; instead, it follows a defined timeline and is carefully controlled by various biological mechanisms. During the healing process, different phases of wound healing—such as the inflammatory phase, proliferative phase, and remodeling phase—each have specific roles in collagen synthesis. Initially, there is an increase in collagen production as the body responds to tissue injury, promoting healing. Over time, as healing progresses, the type and amount of collagen produced can change depending on the needs of the tissue and the phase of healing. This regulated approach ensures that collagen fibers are formed appropriately to provide strength and stability to the new tissue being formed, ultimately aiding in the recovery process. Understanding that collagen synthesis is phase-dependent underscores the complexity of the healing process and highlights the importance of timing and regulation, which varies at different stages of recovery.