Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What is a disposable portable system NPWT designed for?

1. Deep, chronic wounds only

2. Shallow or superficial wounds and closed incisions

3. Exposed external organs requiring sealing

4. Wounds requiring continuous hydration

The correct answer is: Shallow or superficial wounds and closed incisions

A disposable portable system for Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) is specifically designed to manage shallow or superficial wounds and closed incisions effectively. This type of NPWT provides a convenient and efficient way to apply negative pressure in various settings, making it ideal for outpatient care and for patients transitioning to home care after hospitalization. The rationale for focusing on shallow or superficial wounds and closed incisions lies in the mechanism of NPWT. The system creates a vacuum that helps to remove excess exudate, reduce bacterial colonization, and promote granulation tissue formation, which is essential for wound healing. By applying negative pressure, the therapy enhances blood flow to the area and helps in drawing the edges of the wound together, particularly beneficial for wounds that are not excessively deep or complicated. In contrast, deep, chronic wounds often require more robust and continuous care that may not be fully supported by a portable disposable system. Likewise, wounds that involve exposed external organs necessitate specialized wound management that provides adequate sealing and protection, which may be beyond the capabilities of a simple portable NPWT device. Similarly, while some wounds may need moisture control, NPWT is not primarily intended for continuous hydration, as its main advantage lies in the application of negative pressure rather than moisture retention.