Question

How can the nurse determine that negative pressure is being achieved

with a wound V.A.C.?
O The nurse can inquire about the patient's pain level. If there is a reported
decrease in the level of pain, then the wound is constricting and negative
pressure is being achieved.
O The nurse can ensure that there is no whistling noise at the wound site and that
the wound V.A.C. has not triggered its alarm.
O The nurse can check for air leaks by listening with a stethoscope or by moving
the hand around the edges of the wound while applying light pressure.
O The nurse can ensure that the foam is in contact with the entire wound base,
margins, and tunneled and undermined areas.

Answer 1

The nurse can determine negative pressure achievement by checking for air leaks, ensuring no whistling noise, and ensuring foam contact with the entire wound.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse can determine that negative pressure is being achieved with a wound V.A.C. by:

1. Checking for air leaks by listening with a stethoscope or by moving the hand around the edges of the wound while applying light pressure.
2. Ensuring that there is no whistling noise at the wound site and that the wound V.A.C. has not triggered its alarm.
3. Ensuring that the foam is in contact with the entire wound base, margins, and tunneled and undermined areas.

Learn more about Wound V.A.C. and negative pressure