Question

While treating a patient with negative-pressure wound therapy (NWPT) for radiation-damaged skin on the forearm, the nurse observes pressure ulcers on the elbow. Which nursing action is responsible for the patient's condition?

1 The nurse placed the tubing over the elbow.
2 The nurse removed the transparent film by stretching it horizontally.
3 The nurse raised the tubing connectors above the level of the NWPT unit.
4 The nurse kept the system in "de vac" mode for 30 minutes before changing the dressing.

Answer 1

The nurse removing the transparent film by stretching it horizontally is responsible for the patient's condition of pressure ulcers on the elbow while treating with negative-pressure wound therapy for radiation-damaged skin on the forearm.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nursing action that is responsible for the patient's condition is 2 The nurse removed the transparent film by stretching it horizontally. By removing the transparent film by stretching it horizontally, the nurse may have caused excessive pressure on the elbow, leading to the development of pressure ulcers. Pressure ulcers are often caused by constant, long-term, unrelieved pressure on certain body parts that are bony, reducing blood flow to the area and leading to tissue death.