TL;DR

Wound Healing Phases: Inflammatory (0-3 days), proliferative (3-21 days), and maturation/remodeling (21 days to 2 years).

By Valenke Exam Prep Team·Last updated 2026-06-02

Wound Healing Phases

CST SURGICAL TECH MEDICAL ASSISTANT

Definition

Inflammatory (0-3 days), proliferative (3-21 days), and maturation/remodeling (21 days to 2 years).

Calculation Methods

Relevant parameters for wound healing phases in the surgical setting:

Steam (autoclave): Saturated steam under pressure. Gravity: 250 F (121 C) x 30 min. Prevacuum: 270 F (132 C) x 4 min. Flash: 270 F x 3 min (unwrapped)
Cidex OPA: High-level disinfection (not sterilization). 0.55% OPA, 12 minutes soak at 20 C. For semi-critical items (endoscopes). Rinse thoroughly

Exam Focus Areas

On the Cst Surgical Tech, Medical Assistant exam(s), questions about wound healing phases typically test:

Instrument identification, function, and proper passing technique
Sterile technique maintenance and contamination recognition
Counting procedures and protocols for discrepancies
Sterilization parameters and monitoring methods

Differential Diagnosis

When studying wound healing phases, carefully distinguish it from related but distinct concepts: wound closure, wound care, nutrition and hydration. Exam questions often test your ability to select the most specific and appropriate answer when multiple options seem partially correct. Look for the option that most completely addresses the scenario presented.

Patient Communication

Clear communication about wound healing phases with patients, families, and the healthcare team is essential. Use standardized handoff tools (SBAR) for shift changes and transfers. Verify understanding by asking the patient to repeat key information back to you.

Why It Matters

Wound healing phases tested on CST and MA exams.

Practice This Topic

Practice cst postop dressing → CST SURGICAL TECH Practice ma clin wound → MEDICAL ASSISTANT

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Frequently Asked Questions

What sterile technique rules apply to wound healing phases?▼

For wound healing phases: Only sterile items may be placed on a sterile field. Sterile drapes are placed from the operative site outward (near to far). Sterile field is created as close to the time of use as possible and never left unattended.

What is the counting procedure for wound healing phases?▼

For wound healing phases: Sponges counted in groups of 5, radiopaque sponges only used on the field. Incorrect count protocol: notify surgeon then recount then wound search then X-ray if unresolved. Add-on items must be counted when added and at subsequent count times.

What sterilization method is used for equipment related to wound healing phases?▼

For wound healing phases: Cidex OPA: High-level disinfection (not sterilization). Parameters: 0.55% OPA, 12 minutes soak at 20 C. For semi-critical items (endoscopes). Rinse thoroughly.