Reviewing orders for negative-pressure wound therapy (NPWT) to a patient, which nursing process step is involved?

• A. Planning
• B. Evaluation
• C. Assessment
• D. Implementation

Answer: (C)

The step being tested is Assessment. Reviewing orders for negative-pressure wound therapy involves gathering and analyzing information about the patient and the planned therapy before any action is taken. This includes confirming the wound characteristics, patient status, allergies, comorbidities, current treatments, and the specific NPWT orders to ensure they are safe and appropriate. This data collection and verification sets the foundation for planning, implementing, and evaluating care.

Planning would come after you’ve assessed the data, focusing on goals and selecting interventions. Implementation is carrying out the orders, such as applying the NPWT device and following the protocol. Evaluation happens after implementation, judging the effectiveness of the therapy and any need for adjustments.