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Methodology: 10 patients were selected for this evaluation and once patients were assessed as suitable for SUNPWT they were seen at weekly intervals to have the SUNPWT system applied. Photographs were taken every seven days. Patients with confirmed infections were given IV antibiotics. Some patients were referred to the outpatient IV antibiotic service (OPAT). Dressings were changed as per manufacturer’s instructions, either weekly or when the exudate levels had reached the port in the dressing. Patients were assessed for comfort when the product was in situ, and for wound progression during SUNPWT use.
Key results: There were minimal problems with dressings between visits. There was obvious
improvement at each visit, with granulation tissue and wound contraction noted at each dressing change. Patients found the dressing comfortable and there was no evidence of pain during dressing changes. The time taken to change each dressing was minimal which was helpful in the busy
clinic environment. See poster for case details.
Conclusion: Recent initiatives to improve quality and cost effectiveness of patient care have highlighted the need to use innovative techniques to help facilitate this. SUNPWT can reduce the frequency of dressing changes required by managing the wound and exudate more effectively. In an era of austerity, the need to reduce nursing costs may be best achieved by employing new and innovative technologies. SUNPWT would appear to be an ideal intervention for use in both inpatient and outpatient settings. The portable nature of the product makes it easy for patients to carry around and assists with mobility. Other benefits such as no audible alarms which can disturb patients and the simple operation of the dressing reduces training issues for staff compared with current negative pressure systems.