Keep the wound VAC running exactly as prescribed and follow the instructions from your treating clinician and equipment supplier. A leak alarm, loss of suction, blocked tubing, full canister, bleeding, severe pain, fever, or a pump that will not restart should be addressed promptly; urgent symptoms require emergency care.
Check that the tubing connections are secure, the clamps are open, and the dressing has not lifted or wrinkled. Gently smooth the clear adhesive film around the dressing edges. Do not remove the foam or place unapproved material inside the wound unless your clinician specifically trained you to do so.
Confirm that the device has power, the battery is charged, the canister is seated correctly, and the tubing is not kinked, compressed, or clamped. Follow the device-specific instructions supplied with your pump because alarm meanings differ by manufacturer.
Stop and seek immediate clinical instructions if bright-red blood is rapidly entering the tubing or canister, pain becomes severe, the dressing fills suddenly, or the surrounding skin becomes increasingly red and swollen. Call 911 for heavy bleeding, faintness, confusion, difficulty breathing, or other emergency symptoms.
The pump and electrical components must stay dry. Whether showering is permitted depends on the dressing, wound location, and device. Ask the treating clinician for instructions rather than disconnecting the system or covering it with an improvised barrier.
Call 877-545-1300 or request a provider to begin care. Healix360 serves Southern California and Nevada and accepts Medicare Part B and most major insurance plans.