Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which phase of wound healing is characterized by collagen reorganization and strengthening?

1. The maturation phase

2. The proliferative phase

3. The inflammatory phase

4. The epithelial closure phase

The correct answer is: The maturation phase

The maturation phase of wound healing is characterized primarily by collagen reorganization and strengthening. During this phase, which can last from several weeks to several years, the collagen laid down during the earlier phases of healing is remodeled and restructured. This process leads to increased tensile strength of the wound as the collagen fibers align and cross-link more effectively, which helps to restore the integrity of the skin or tissue. As collagen matures and strengthens, the wound gradually becomes less vascular and more resilient. This transformation is crucial because it allows the tissue to better withstand stress and strain. The maturation phase is vital in achieving optimal functional and aesthetic outcomes, as the healed area undergoes changes that diminish the appearance of scars over time. In contrast to this phase, the proliferative phase involves the generation of new tissue and formation of granulation tissue, while the inflammatory phase is focused on preventing infection and initial healing responses. The epithelial closure phase refers specifically to the process of new epithelial tissue forming over the wound. Each of these phases contributes to the overall healing process, but it is in the maturation phase where the strength and durability of the healed tissue are solidified through collagen reorganization.