Wound Vac Instructions

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This is not a substitute for direct care by YOUR doctor. Confirm with your doctor before doing any of the following.

Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) or a “Wound Vac” is a method of drawing out fluid and infection from a wound to help it heal. A special dressing (bandage) is sealed over the wound and a gentle vacuum pump is attached.

Hygiene 

•  Do not get your machine wet. 
• Shower or sponge bath only. Never soak or submerge the dressing in water. 
• Turn the power off to the machine. Close both clamps. Disconnect the canister tubing from the dressing tube. Cover both ends of tubing with plastic wrap before getting into the shower. Set your machine in a safe place away from water. 
• Pat the dressing dry with a clean towel. 

Alarms and Troubleshooting 

Occasionally the V.A.C® Therapy machine will alarm and a message will appear on the screen telling you the type of alarm. Most are easy to solve on your own. If you are unable to correct the alarm call your health care provider who changes your dressing immediately. If you are unable to reach your health care provider call the KCI Service line. 

ALARMS AND WHAT TO DO 

CANISTER FULL ALARM -> Change the V.A.C.® canister. 

LEAK ALARM - > Check for leaks: Check tubing connection. If loose, tighten. If whistling is coming from the clear cover over the dressing, patch with a new piece if available

LOW BATTERY/BATTERY CRITICAL ALARM - > Plug the machine into a power outlet immediately and secure with Velcro strap.

BLOCKAGE ALARM - > Check the V.A.C® canister and if full change it. Check tubing for kinks or blockages. Make sure tubing clamps are open.

THERAPY ENDED ALARM -> Contact your health care provider who changes your dressing.

POWER IS ON BUT THE MACHINE IS NOT WORKING - > Press the on/off button. If the machine does not start up, contact your health care provider who changes your dressing.