Wound Care Certified Certification (WCC) Practice Exam

What are the effects of electrical stimulation on wound tissue?

1. Increases swelling and reduces pain

2. Reduces pain and improves scar tissue elasticity

3. Enhances bacterial growth

4. Promotes rapid tissue necrosis

The correct answer is: Reduces pain and improves scar tissue elasticity

The correct answer highlights the benefits of electrical stimulation in wound healing, particularly its ability to reduce pain and improve the elasticity of scar tissue. Electrical stimulation is known for its analgesic effects, which help in minimizing pain by altering the perception of pain signals in the body. This is particularly important in wound care, as pain can significantly impede the healing process and overall patient comfort. Additionally, electrical stimulation has been shown to enhance the healing of tissue by promoting collagen production and remodeling. This is crucial in scar tissue formation, as it can lead to more flexible and functional tissue compared to non-stimulated tissue. The elasticity of scar tissue directly impacts how well a person can move and function post-injury or surgery. In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the effects of electrical stimulation on wound tissue. For instance, increasing swelling is contrary to the objectives of wound healing, as it can impede recovery. Moreover, promoting bacterial growth would be harmful, as bacterial infections are detrimental to the healing process. Lastly, rapid tissue necrosis is not a desirable outcome in wound care and is inconsistent with the therapeutic aims of electrical stimulation, which seeks to promote tissue health and regeneration rather than cause further tissue damage.