You have been given this guide as your doctor or specialist healthcare professional (HCP) may be considering prescribing NPWT as part of your wound care treatment plan. A HCP will oversee the use of the NPWT system, which includes its application and regular dressing changes. Your doctor, specialist or HCP will always seek your informed consent prior to starting NPWT and throughout the course of your treatment. Your clinician will also discuss when and why NPWT may begin and end.

What is NPWT?

It is a medical device system which delivers a negative pressure (a vacuum) to the wound, creating an environment that promotes the wound healing process. It does so by:

• drawing the wound edges together
• removing excess fluid
• encouraging healthy tissue to grow
• protecting wounds from outside contamination
• increasing blood supply to the wound
• reducing healing time.

What does a NPWT dressing involve?

A NPWT gauze or foam dressing is cut to the size of the wound. This goes on, or inside, the wound and is sealed with a clear, sticky film. A tube connects the dressing to the suction pump and once turned on, it gently applies suction (negative pressure). This slowly draws fluid into the canister which is fitted to the pump. The dressing is normally changed three times a week. The canister is changed weekly unless it becomes full and then it will be changed more often. Make sure the pump is upright, not laid on its back, so the fluid can drain into the canister properly.

Are there circumstances when NPWT should not be used?

We do not place NPWT dressings in contact with exposed blood vessels, over tubular body structures such as blood vessels or intestines that are joined surgically, body organs or nerves. NPWT is also not suitable for patients with malignancy in the wound, untreated osteomyelitis (bone infection), non-enteric and unexplored fistulas, gangrenous or necrotic tissue and sensitivity to silver (specific to NPWT Granufoam Silver dressing only) Please discuss and review this information with your clinician so you can fully understand the contraindications, risks and benefits of NPWT.

How does a NPWT feel?

Most patients describe it as a non-painful, mild pulling sensation that may not be noticeable after a few minutes. Wound comfort may vary per individual. It may become tender or itch as it heals, but if itching or discomfort persists, please speak to your clinician.

How long will the NPWT be on my wound?

The length of time to heal a wound is different for every individual. General health conditions, size and location of the wound, as well as nutritional status can affect the time it takes for wound to heal. Your clinician- doctor or nurses caring for you will discuss with you when and why NPWT may begin and end, depending on how your wound is progressing and how well you are. Always feel free to ask and discuss this with them.

Does changing the NPWT dressing hurt?

Some people experience discomfort during dressing changes, but this often depends on the type of wound and its location on your body. If you find it painful, the nurse can give you advice on pain relief and suggest you take painkillers 30-60 minutes prior to the procedure.

Can I move around on NPWT?

Yes, you are free to move around, and you would be advised by your nurses if this is not the case. The NPWT unit will need to be plugged in and recharged daily; this may be convenient to do overnight. Each charge should last up to 14 hours and it will take about six hours to fully recharge the battery. The NPWT pump also comes with a discreet, portable bag so it should not stop you from doing your daily activities.

Can I have a bath or a shower?

A bath would only be possible if your wound is above the water level as the seal of the dressing may be affected. A brief shower would be preferable. The nurse will show how you can disconnect your tubing from the pump for this to avoid getting the pump wet and damaged. The NPWT pump must be always kept dry.

What happens if the NPWT pump alarms?

The display screen on the pump will detail the problem when it alarms. The problem is normally easily resolved. You will have been given information by the nurse on who to contact should this occur. The company helpline, Solventum, is also available 24 hours a day for advice. Their contact number is 0800 980 8880.

What if I have concerns?

Please call your nursing team on the number provided if you have any concerns, your dressing does not feel right, your dressing is leaking, your pump is alarming, or if you notice fresh blood in your tubing or canister.

What can I do to help my wound heal?

Wound healing can take time, and it is understandable to feel frustrated and anxious. To help your wound to heal, we would suggest eating a healthy, balanced diet, which is rich in protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals as well as drinking sufficient fluids to promote tissue repair and your recovery. If possible, staying active will also help with blood circulation and enhance your general well-being. We would also advise limiting alcohol intake and stopping smoking.

It is also particularly important not to leave the NPWT off for longer than two hours as this will affect therapy and healing. If your NPWT pump has not been working for two hours or more, please contact the community nurses. The dressing will need to be removed and if able to, replaced with conventional dressings while waiting for the community nurse to reapply the NPWT dressing.