Introduction:

Chronic wounds represent a current problem that generates an impact on many levels and whose treatment is based on an infinite number of products available on the market nowadays. As technology progresses, new devices are developed improving the treatment and affecting in benefits for patients. Topical Negative Pressure theraphy, included in the advanced healing techniques, is a representative example of this but a correct use of it requires a trained staff able to use it suitably through their knowledge.

Aim:

The main objective is to determine the current level of health workers’ knowledge about generalities and the handling of topical negative pressure therapy.

Method:

An observational, descriptive and analytical study was conducted at the Hospital General Universitario de Alicante. The study population was made up of 65 professionals in the field of nursing and medicine working in units where they are more familiar with their use, carrying out the collection of data by means of a questionnaire type ad hoc.

Results:

20% of professionals show a low level of knowledge, 61.5%, an appropriate level and the 18.5%, a high level of expertise. Therefore, 80% of the studied population has an adequate or high level of expertise.

Findings:

Specific training through attendance at courses and conferences, the treatment of a greater number of injuries with TNP and the fact of being trained become prerequisites for a correct use of the device. The current level of knowledge does not exempt from the need to create a protocol allowing the unification of criteria between the professionals and the need for training to upgrade the expertise.

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