How to Change a Cartridge on a Wound Vac

Vacuum therapy is a relatively new therapeutic technique wherein open wounds are vacuum-sealed under gauze, foam or some other form of dressing to help speed up the healing process and fight infection. A tube needs to be connected to the dressing with the other end connected to a pump that provides the vacuum. In this pump is a canister or cartridge that collects fluids and needs to be periodically changed. The good news is that this is a fairly straightforward process.

Instructions

• 1

  Follow the plastic tubing from the wound to the electric pump unit. If the pump is encased in a carrying bag, open the bag to access the pump.

• 2

  Locate the fluid cartridge on the body of the pump. It should be a clear plastic case on the top of the unit. Then press the power button on the control panel of the pump to turn it off.

• 3

  Press the small release button to the side of the cartridge and simultaneously pull the cartridge from the pump. Insert a fresh cartridge in its place and press it gently down into the compartment until it locks in place.

• 4

  Turn your pump back on and make sure you dispose of the old cartridge in a manner consistent with hazardous waste, such as sealing it in a bio-hazard bag before disposal.