Certified Nurses Operating Room (CNOR) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of primary intention in wound healing?

1. To promote secondary growth of tissue

2. To minimize scarring

3. To allow for gradual tissue integration

4. To manage severe infections

The correct answer is: To minimize scarring

The purpose of primary intention in wound healing is to minimize scarring. This method of healing occurs when the edges of a wound are brought together, often through suturing or the use of adhesive strips, which aligns the tissue edges closely. This close approximation reduces the amount of granulation tissue that forms and typically results in a more aesthetically pleasing scar, as there is less tissue disruption. The healing process for wounds treated by primary intention generally occurs in a more straightforward manner, with less inflammation and quicker recovery times, further contributing to reduced scarring. While secondary growth of tissue, gradual tissue integration, and managing severe infections are important aspects of wound healing and care, they are more applicable to different methods of healing or specific circumstances, rather than the primary intention approach.