Evidence-Based Practice
A modified Delphi technique was used. An additional 25 participants were invited to complete an anonymous survey on the consensus statements. Consensus was defined as a ≥80% agreement among survey respondents. The panel members and survey participants included podiatrists, surgeons, physician assistants, registered nurses, and nurse practitioners.
Results:
Panel members recommended use of ORC/C/Ag-ORC dressings with NPWT and ROCF dressings in both inpatient and outpatient healthcare settings. Use in traumatic wounds, surgical wounds, diabetic ulcers, venous leg ulcers, and pressure injuries was supported. Use of ORC/C/Ag-ORC dressings in combination with NPWT and ROCF dressings at the earliest point possible in the wound care plan was also advised. The therapy combination was not recommended in the presence of exposed unprotected organs or exposed unprotected vessels, inadequate wound hemostasis, acutely ischemic wounds, surgically closed incisions, third degree burns, or in patients with hypersensitivity to therapy components.
Discussion: Limited evidence exists on the use of NPWT in conjunction with ORC/C/Ag-ORC dressings. A panel was convened to develop guidance for the use of this therapy combination. A total of 12 consensus statements were created to help educate clinicians on the recommended and contraindicated uses of NPWT in conjunction with ORC/C/Ag-ORC dressings.