After trimming the sponge to fit the wound bed, what is the next step in applying a negative pressure system?

• A. Fill wound with sponge
• B. Apply drape and create a seal
• C. Trim another sponge
• D. Irrigate the wound

Answer: (A)

When applying negative pressure wound therapy, the next step is to place the trimmed sponge into the wound so it fills the space and contacts all wound surfaces. The sponge provides a medium that distributes the suction evenly and helps remove exudate as the negative pressure is applied. After the sponge is in place, you would then apply the adhesive drape to create a seal and connect the system to establish the suction. Irrigation isn’t the immediate next action, and trimming another sponge isn’t typically needed at this point.