Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

Which type of sponge is recommended for tunneled areas in NPWT?

1. Black sponge

2. Silver sponge

3. White sponge

4. Damp gauze

The correct answer is: White sponge

The correct choice emphasizes the use of a white sponge specifically designed for tunneled areas in Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT). This type of sponge is typically made from a porous material that facilitates the management of exudate and promotes healing in complex wounds, particularly in areas with tunneling or undermining. White sponges are used because they provide a suitable framework for the application of negative pressure, allowing for effective drainage while maintaining a moist wound environment. This moisture balance is crucial for optimal healing, as it helps to prevent desiccation of the tissue while still removing excess fluid and promoting granulation tissue formation. Tunneled wounds can pose unique challenges, and the white sponge is designed to fill these spaces adequately, ensuring that negative pressure is evenly distributed, thus reducing the risk of complications such as infection or impaired healing. The properties of the white sponge make it ideal for achieving the desired therapeutic effects when deployed in harder-to-reach wound areas.