Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What type of wound is best suited for a disposable portable system NPWT?

1. Large, deep wounds

2. Shallow or superficial wounds

3. Wounds with exposed organs

4. Necrotic wounds requiring debridement

The correct answer is: Shallow or superficial wounds

The use of a disposable portable system for negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is particularly suited for shallow or superficial wounds. This is because such wounds benefit from the ability of NPWT to maintain a moist wound environment while removing excess exudate and promoting granulation tissue formation. The portable nature of the system allows for patient mobility and ease of use, which is advantageous for patients with superficial wounds that may not require extensive or continuous care. In contrast, large, deep wounds often require more robust NPWT systems that can provide higher levels of suction and manage larger volumes of exudate. Wounds with exposed organs necessitate careful management and typically require more complex dressing changes and monitoring, which may not be feasible with a portable system. Additionally, necrotic wounds that require debridement may not be the best candidates for initial NPWT applications, as these wounds often need thorough cleaning and removal of dead tissue prior to the application of NPWT therapies.