Which phase of wound healing is characterized by clot formation to stop bleeding?

• A. Hemostasis
• B. Inflammation
• C. Proliferation
• D. Maturation/remodeling

Answer: (A)

Stopping bleeding through clot formation is the first step in wound healing. When tissue is injured, blood vessels constrict and platelets quickly gather at the site to form a plug. At the same time, the coagulation cascade activates and fibrin stabilizes the plug, creating a clot that seals the wound and prevents further blood loss. This phase is what stops bleeding and provides a temporary barrier that paves the way for the next stages of healing. After hemostasis, inflammation clears debris and microbes, proliferation builds new tissue and blood vessels, and remodeling strengthens the repaired area. The clot-forming phase is specifically about stopping bleeding, not tissue regeneration or scar formation.