NPWT
Medical abbreviation · Nursing
| Stands for | Negative pressure wound therapy |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
NPWT stands for Negative pressure wound therapy, a nursing abbreviation.
Wound treatment in which foam or gauze is sealed under an airtight film and connected to a pump that applies continuous or intermittent suction, commonly around 125 mmHg. It removes exudate, reduces swelling and promotes granulation tissue.
Example: NPWT at -125 mmHg continuous, dressing change MWF, seal intact.
Usage notes
Popularly called a wound VAC after an early brand. Dressings are generally changed every 48 to 72 hours. The pump should not be off for more than about two hours, or the dressing should be replaced, because an unsealed dressing can trap fluid. Exposed blood vessels and untreated osteomyelitis are among the contraindications.
Related abbreviations
More nursing abbreviations
- NIC – Nursing Interventions Classification
- NKA – No known allergies
- NKDA – No known drug allergies
- NKFA – No known food allergies
- NOC – Nursing Outcomes Classification
- NPO – Nil per os (nothing by mouth)
- OASIS – Outcome and Assessment Information Set
- OGT – Orogastric tube
- OOB – Out of bed
- PERRL – Pupils equal, round, reactive to light
- PERRLA – Pupils equal, round, reactive to light and accommodation
- PI – Pressure injury
See all 90 nursing abbreviations →
This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.