What is the duration of the fibroblastic phase in wound healing?

Appeared in: DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Explanation

The fibroblastic phase, also known as the proliferative phase, is the second major stage of wound healing.
This phase typically begins around the third day after injury, following the initial inflammatory phase.
It is characterized by the proliferation of fibroblasts, which deposit collagen, and the formation of new blood vessels (angiogenesis), creating granulation tissue.
This phase continues for approximately three weeks, gradually overlapping with the final remodeling phase.

Option B: This option suggests the phase starts on day 5, which is too late. Key fibroblastic activity begins around day 3.
Option C: This range is too wide and inaccurate. Day 1 is firmly within the inflammatory phase, and the proliferative phase typically concludes by week 3, not week 4.
Option D: This timeframe is too short. While the fibroblastic phase is active during the first week, it extends for up to three weeks.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Phases of wound healing helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Understanding the wound healing timeline is crucial for nurses to assess healing progress and identify complications.
During the fibroblastic phase, nutritional support is critical. The nurse should ensure the patient has adequate intake of protein, vitamin C, and zinc to support collagen synthesis and cell proliferation.
A wound that appears pale, has no granulation tissue, and is not reducing in size by the end of the first week may have a stalled proliferative phase, requiring further assessment for infection, poor perfusion, or malnutrition.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'fibroblastic phase'.
Recall the major stages of wound healing in order: Hemostasis/Inflammation, Proliferation (Fibroblastic), and Remodeling/Maturation.
Access your knowledge of the typical timeline for each phase. The inflammatory phase lasts a few days, the proliferative phase lasts a few weeks, and the remodeling phase can last for months to years.
Specifically, remember that the proliferative/fibroblastic phase starts after the initial inflammation subsides, around day 3, and is responsible for filling the wound, which takes up to 3 weeks.
Compare this recalled timeline (approx. 3 days to 3 weeks) with the given options and select the closest match.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Pathology-Textbook of PATHOLOGYHarsh Mohan Part 1 (1-214) p. 135-137

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 6 p. 74-76

Practise the full DSSSB -28 August 2019 (Shift-2)

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.