Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

Which factor can affect a wound's ability to heal?

1. Pain

2. Infection

3. Vomiting

4. Nausea

The correct answer is: Infection

Infection is a critical factor that can greatly impede a wound's healing process. When a wound becomes infected, it introduces harmful microorganisms that can lead to inflammation and tissue damage. The presence of bacteria can disrupt the natural healing process, prolonging the inflammatory response and causing additional complications such as increased pain, redness, and swelling. This can ultimately result in delayed healing or even systemic infections if not properly managed. Wound healing involves several stages: hemostasis, inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling. Infection primarily affects the inflammatory stage by exacerbating the body's response, which can hinder the transition to the next phases of healing. Therefore, effective wound care must prioritize preventing infection through appropriate cleaning, dressing, and monitoring, ensuring an optimal environment for healing to occur.