Wound Care Certified Certification (WCC) Practice Exam

What is a common characteristic of chronic wounds?

1. Rapid closure

2. Stabilization without care

3. Presence of granulation tissue

4. Delayed healing despite treatment

The correct answer is: Delayed healing despite treatment

A common characteristic of chronic wounds is delayed healing despite treatment. Chronic wounds are typically defined as those that fail to progress through the normal healing stages in a timely manner, often persisting for longer than three months. This delayed healing can be attributed to various factors, including underlying medical conditions (such as diabetes or vascular disease), infection, inadequate blood supply, or ongoing trauma to the wound site. In chronic wounds, the expected physiological processes of healing are disrupted, leading to a prolonged inflammatory phase, which can hinder wound closure and recovery. This characteristic sets chronic wounds apart from acute wounds, which tend to heal more predictably and quickly with appropriate care. Understanding this aspect is crucial for effective management and treatment strategies in wound care.