The patient is undergoing Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) treatment for wound healing. Which would be your first priority in caring for this patient?
Assess the patient for any complaints or problems in the wound area.
Check the settings on the NPWT unit.
Document your findings.
Observe the dressing area.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
The nurse’s first priority should always be to assess the patient’s condition. In the context of NPWT, this means checking for any complaints or problems in the wound area. This assessment helps to ensure that the NPWT is not causing additional issues and that the wound is healing as expected.
Choice B rationale
While it is important to check the settings on the NPWT unit to ensure it is functioning correctly, this is not the first priority. The patient’s well-being and response to treatment take precedence over equipment checks.
Choice C rationale
Documentation is a critical part of patient care, but it comes after patient assessment and any necessary interventions. It serves to record the patient’s status and the care provided but is not the immediate priority.
Choice D rationale
Observing the dressing area is part of the overall assessment of the patient and the effectiveness of the NPWT. However, it is not the first action to take. The nurse must first assess the patient for any discomfort or complications before focusing on the dressing itself.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Numbing the area treated is not a primary physiological effect of moist heat. Moist heat therapy works by increasing the temperature of the skin and underlying tissues, which does not directly numb the area but can lead to an increased pain threshold.
Choice B rationale
Drawing fluid to the site of application is not a physiological effect of moist heat. While moist heat can increase local circulation, it does not specifically draw fluids to the application site³.
Choice C rationale
Dilating the blood vessels is a key physiological effect of moist heat. The increased temperature from the heat application causes vasodilation, which increases blood flow to the area, promoting healing and reducing muscle spasm⁴.
Choice D rationale
Constricting the blood vessels is not a physiological effect of moist heat. In fact, the opposite occurs; moist heat causes vasodilation, not vasoconstriction.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Inspecting the plug and cord for cracks or fraying is essential to prevent electrical hazards and ensure the safety of both the patient and healthcare staff.
Choice B rationale
Securing the pad to the patient helps to maintain the correct position and prevent burns or other injuries from improper pad placement.
Choice C rationale
Instructing the patient not to sleep on the pad is important because prolonged, direct contact with the heat source can cause burns, especially if the patient is immobile or has sensory deficits.
Choice D rationale
Assisting the patient to lie on top of the pad is not recommended as it can lead to burns due to increased temperature exposure in one area.
Choice E rationale
Using a thermometer to check the temperature of the pad ensures that it is within a safe range for application to the patient's skin, preventing burns.
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