Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

Using black or silver sponges in negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) is appropriate for porous configurations needing nonadherent contact. Black sponges are often used in NPWT systems for their ability to promote granulation tissue formation while minimizing adherence to the wound bed. This feature is particularly beneficial for wounds that may require frequent dressing changes or for areas where there is a risk of skin injury during dressing removal. Silver sponges, in addition to their nonadherent properties, have antimicrobial benefits, making them valuable for wounds that may have a higher risk of infection. The porous nature of these sponges allows for better fluid management and promotes healing by maintaining a moist wound environment. In contrast, the other options describe scenarios where black or silver sponges would not be the best choice. For example, deep and infected wounds may require different types of dressing that offer higher absorbency or enhanced antibacterial properties. Wounds requiring minimal absorption might use different dressing types that allow for more basic care without the specialized features of black or silver sponges. Lastly, for wounds with no exudate, the use of these sponges could be unnecessary and potentially lead to unwanted moisture retention if not appropriately matched to the wound's needs.