Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) Practice Exam

What type of tissue does collagenase target in the wound bed?

1. Granulation tissue

2. Necrotic tissue

3. Epithelial tissue

4. Muscle tissue

The correct answer is: Necrotic tissue

Collagenase is an enzyme that specifically targets collagen, which is a major component of connective tissues in the body. In the context of wound care, collagenase is most effective at breaking down necrotic tissue, which is often characterized by dead or damaged cells that can impede healing if not removed. This necrotic tissue may include eschar or slough, which are not viable and can harbor bacteria, leading to infection. By breaking down this non-viable tissue, collagenase helps to promote a healthier wound environment, allowing for better integration of granulation tissue and ultimately facilitating the healing process. The presence of necrotic tissue in the wound bed can delay recovery, making the action of collagenase particularly critical in wound management. The other types of tissue mentioned, such as granulation, epithelial, and muscle tissues, represent viable and essential components of the healing process or structures that should be preserved. Granulation tissue is necessary for healing, epithelial tissue is crucial for re-epithelialization, and muscle tissue plays an important role in wound support and function, emphasizing the importance of targeting only the necrotic tissue to enable effective wound healing.