AST Surgical Technologist Practice Exam

The primary purpose of a skin graft is to facilitate wound healing. Skin grafts are utilized in situations where there is a significant loss of skin, such as from burns, traumatic injuries, or surgical procedures that require removal of damaged tissue. By providing a biological covering, skin grafts help protect the underlying tissues, reduce the risk of further injury, and promote the healing process by allowing for granulation tissue formation underneath the graft. This biological barrier helps to stabilize the wound environment, allowing for better healing outcomes.

While improving cosmetic appearance, reducing pain, and preventing infection are also important considerations in the overall management of a patient with skin loss, they are secondary benefits that result from the successful application of a skin graft rather than its primary function. The primary intent is to create conditions conducive to healing the wound effectively.