Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

What is characteristic of healing by second intention?

1. Wound edges are sutured together

2. Wound edges cannot be approximated and heal from inside out

3. Wound is closed immediately after the injury

4. Primary suturing is performed

The correct answer is: Wound edges cannot be approximated and heal from inside out

Healing by second intention is characterized by the inability to bring the wound edges together, resulting in the wound healing from the inside out. This process occurs when there is significant tissue loss or when the wound is too large to be closed with sutures. During this type of healing, granulation tissue develops, filling the wound from the base upwards, and epithelial cells migrate across the wound surface as it heals. This method contrasts with healing by primary intention, where the edges of the wound are approximated and sutured together, leading to a faster and cleaner healing process. In second intention healing, the wound typically takes longer to heal and may form more scar tissue as it goes through the natural healing phases. Understanding this distinction helps in recognizing the various healing processes and their implications for wound care and management.