Abstract
Wound healing is a complex, intricate series of events influenced by internal and external conditions. Factors that influence the events of the wound healing cascade are determined by deficiencies and comorbidities of the patient in addition to the environment of the wound. Topical and systemic treatment of the wound may be necessary to bring the wound to closure. Skilled assessment and a thorough understanding of the physiological requirements for wound healing enable the nurse to understand why some wounds heal quickly and others are slow to heal. This article introduces the reader to the concepts of wound healing physiology, the phases of wound repair, and some of the local and systemic factors that may impede the healing process.