Which laboratory tests are commonly used to assess wound healing?

To assess wound healing effectively, a complete blood count (CBC) and wound cultures are commonly employed. The CBC provides vital information about a patient's overall health and can indicate the presence of infection by evaluating parameters such as white blood cell count, hemoglobin levels, and platelet counts. A high white blood cell count, for example, may suggest an active infection, which can impede healing.

Wound cultures are crucial for identifying specific pathogens present in the wound. This allows for targeted treatment with appropriate antibiotics, if necessary, and can significantly influence healing outcomes. By combining these two tests, healthcare professionals can gain insights into both potential infections and the patient's systemic response, essential components in managing and optimizing wound healing.

Other options listed, while important in different contexts, do not specifically target the assessment of wound healing in the same way. Blood glucose levels are more pertinent to diabetes management and its effects on healing. Urinalysis and blood gas analysis typically evaluate renal function and respiratory status, respectively, neither of which directly assess wound healing. Lastly, liver function tests and electrolyte panels focus on metabolic and organ function but do not provide direct information relevant to wound healing.