Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What characterizes VAC NPWT?

1. Utilizes moist gauze exclusively

2. Employs foam sponges for wound coverage

3. Applies standard dressing without suction

4. Best suited for superficial wounds only

The correct answer is: Employs foam sponges for wound coverage

The characterization of VAC NPWT, which stands for Vacuum-Assisted Closure Negative Pressure Wound Therapy, is best represented by the use of foam sponges for wound coverage. This method is designed to promote healing in various types of wounds by applying negative pressure to the wound bed, which helps to improve blood flow, reduce edema, and enhance granulation tissue formation. Foam sponges are specifically engineered to help distribute the negative pressure evenly across the wound. They also provide a moist environment that is conducive to healing while allowing exudate to be absorbed and managed effectively. This method has been shown to be effective for a range of wound types, including those with deeper tissue and complex structures. In contrast, using moist gauze exclusively would not provide the negative pressure necessary for optimal healing, standard dressings without suction would not achieve the therapeutic benefits that NPWT offers, and the assertion that this treatment is best suited for superficial wounds undermines the versatility of VAC NPWT, as it is indicated for a broad spectrum of wound types, including complex and difficult-to-heal wounds.