A nurse is evaluating the effectiveness of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) on a client with a chronic wound. Which of the following outcomes would indicate that the therapy is successful?

Correct answer: C) Ensure that the dressing is sealed and airtight around the wound.

Rationale: Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is a device that applies

subatmospheric pressure to the wound bed, which promotes granulation tissue formation, removes excess fluid and debris, and reduces edema and bacterial colonization. The nurse should ensure that the dressing is sealed and airtight around the wound to maintain negative pressure and prevent air leaks.

Incorrect options:

A) Change the dressing every 12 hours or as needed. - This is not recommended for NPWT, as frequent dressing changes can disrupt wound healing and increase the risk of infection. The nurse should change the dressing every 48 to 72 hours or as prescribed by the provider.

B) Irrigate the wound with normal saline before applying the dressing. - This is not recommended for NPWT, as irrigation can introduce bacteria into the wound and interfere with negative pressure. The nurse should clean the wound with normal saline or sterile water and pat it dry gently before applying the dressing.

D) Clamp the tubing when ambulating or repositioning the client. - This is not recommended for NPWT, as clamping can interrupt negative pressure and cause tissue damage. The nurse should secure the tubing to prevent kinking or dislodgment and keep the device below the level of the wound when ambulating or repositioning the client.

Answer: B

Partial-thickness burn is a burn that involves the epidermis and part of the dermis. It causes blisters, pain, and redness. It may heal spontaneously or require skin grafting depending on the depth and extent of the injury.

A. Superficial burn is a burn that involves only the epidermis. It causes erythema, mild pain, and no blisters. It heals within a few days without scarring.

C. Full-thickness burn is a burn that involves the epidermis, dermis, and underlying tissues such as fat, muscle, or bone. It causes charred, white, or black skin, no pain, and loss of sensation. It requires skin grafting and may result in scarring and contractures.

D. Deep partial-thickness burn is a burn that involves the epidermis and most of the dermis. It causes white or red skin, severe pain, and decreased sensation. It may heal slowly or require skin grafting.