Certified Medical-Surgical Registered Nurse Practice Exam

Which substance is essential for the transport of oxygen during wound healing?

1. Zinc

2. Vitamin B6

3. Folate

4. Vitamin C

The correct answer is: Folate

The substance that is essential for the transport of oxygen during wound healing is zinc, which plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including immune response, DNA synthesis, cell division, and protein synthesis. Zinc is important for collagen synthesis and tissue repair, facilitating efficient wound healing. It helps maintain structural integrity and performs antioxidant functions which can combat oxidative stress during the healing process. While vitamin B6, folate, and vitamin C also contribute to overall health and healing, zinc’s direct involvement in oxygen transport and cellular functions in wound healing makes it the most relevant substance in this context. Vitamin C, for instance, is vital for collagen synthesis and immune function but is not primarily recognized for oxygen transport. Folate supports DNA synthesis and cell division, while vitamin B6 is involved in various metabolic processes, but neither directly addresses the transport of oxygen during the healing process like zinc does.