Wound Care Certified Certification (WCC) Practice Exam

What course of action should you take if you notice sudden active bleeding in a wound receiving negative pressure wound therapy?

1. Increase the pressure setting on the device

2. Stop NPWT treatment

3. Apply an additional dressing

4. Notify a physician immediately

The correct answer is: Stop NPWT treatment

If you notice sudden active bleeding in a wound receiving negative pressure wound therapy, the appropriate response is to stop the NPWT treatment. This action is crucial because continuing the therapy in the presence of active bleeding can exacerbate the situation and potentially lead to more severe complications. Negative pressure wound therapy is designed to promote healing by removing excess fluid and promoting blood flow to the wound bed, but if there is an active bleed, maintaining that negative pressure can interfere with hemostasis, possibly worsening the bleeding. When NPWT is paused, it allows for proper assessment of the wound and management of the bleeding. This may involve applying direct pressure, dressing changes, or other techniques to control the hemorrhage. It is also important to inform a physician, as this may require further medical interventions. While other options may seem helpful in managing the situation, they may not provide the immediate control needed in the event of active bleeding. Therefore, stopping the therapy is essential for safeguarding the patient’s safety and allowing for effective management of the situation.