What is the first step in applying a negative pressure wound therapy system?

• A. Clean wound with saline solution
• B. Clean and dry area around wound
• C. Trim sponge to fit entire wound bed but not overflow
• D. Fill wound with sponge

Answer: (A)

Cleaning the wound with saline creates a clean, moist base for the NPWT dressing, helping remove debris and reduce bacterial load so the foam can sit flush against the wound bed and the seal can form properly. This initial cleansing minimizes contamination and sets up effective therapy. After this step, you would dry the surrounding skin, trim the foam to fit the wound bed without overflowing, and then place the foam and apply the dressing. Choosing saline specifically avoids introducing cytotoxic substances and keeps the wound environment safe for healing.