Communication with patients using negative wound pressure therapy and their adherence to treatment

The purpose of this study was to explore the challenges of communication between patients and health professionals, and patient adherence to treatment for hard-to-heal wounds when using negative wound pressure therapy (NPWT).

Face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted with patients undergoing NPWT. Specific features of the NPWT device were the priority for discussion although other factors central to communication and adherence were also explored.

A total of 24 patients took part in the study. Data saturation was achieved during the analysis. Patients required ongoing support to understand complex and often protracted treatment and this was particularly important when specialist technology was used. A distinction was highlighted between those who decided not to adhere with therapy and those who did so unintentionally. Participants faced difficulties in their communications with health professionals and in ensuring their needs were listened to and addressed.

Further research is needed to achieve a better understanding of this distinction and to evaluate interventions which can sustain adherence behaviours. Further exploration of how to establish concordant patient/health professional communications is warranted.