Question

A patient is receiving negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT). After the primary health care provider places the device, the nurse applies a foam, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) dressing. What is the purpose of the dressing?

1 To remove wound debris
2 To prevent wound maceration
3 To stimulate wound contraction
4 To prevent excessive growth of granulation tissue

Answer 1

The purpose of the foam, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) dressing is to prevent wound maceration.

Step-by-step explanation:

The purpose of the foam, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) dressing applied after a patient receives negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is to prevent wound maceration. Wound maceration occurs when excessive moisture accumulates around the wound, which can delay healing and increase the risk of infection. The foam dressing helps absorb excess moisture from the wound and create an environment conducive to healing.