Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) Practice Exam

True or False: Fibroblasts play a critical role in the remodeling phase of wound healing.

1. True

2. False

3. Only in the inflammatory phase

4. They are not involved in healing

The correct answer is: True

Fibroblasts indeed play a critical role during the remodeling phase of wound healing. In this phase, which can last for weeks to months following the initial injury, fibroblasts are responsible for the production of collagen and extracellular matrix components, which provide structural support to the healing tissue. These cells help to strengthen and reorganize the wound area, contributing to tissue integrity and function. The activity of fibroblasts is vital to ensure that the wound not only heals effectively but also regains strength and resilience. While fibroblasts are also present during the inflammatory phase, their most significant contributions are observed during remodeling, when their proliferation and activity facilitate the transition from a provisional matrix to a more stable form. This highlights their essential function in the overall process of wound healing.