Product Overview
The Smith & Nephew PICO 7 is a single‑use negative pressure wound therapy system that delivers suction to promote healing. It includes a lightweight, battery‑powered pump, integrated fluid‑management pack, and a self‑adhesive dressing that seals securely for optimal therapy Ideal foracute wounds chronic
Model and Key Features of the PICO 7 System
The PICO 7 system, manufactured by Smith & Nephew, is a single‑use negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) platform designed for rapid deployment and ease of use in a variety of clinical settings. It features a compact, battery‑powered pump that delivers continuous or intermittent suction up to 125 mm Hg, with adjustable settings to accommodate different wound types. The integrated fluid‑management pack automatically collects exudate and can be connected to a closed‑system drainage bag, reducing the risk of contamination and simplifying monitoring. The dressing is a self‑adhesive, silicone‑based interface that conforms to irregular surfaces, creating an airtight seal while protecting the wound from external contaminants. The system includes a pre‑filled, sterile, a dressing that eliminates the need for dressing materials, thereby minimizing preparation time and potential for error. Key features include: • 4‑inch (10 cm) separation from other devices to prevent magnetic interference; • 2‑3‑day dressing change interval when using a filler for low‑exudate wounds; • Integrated pressure sensor that provides real‑time feedback on suction levels; • Lightweight design that allows bedside or outpatient use; • Clear, color‑coded indicators for battery status, pressure, fluid level; • Compatibility with a range of fillers, including gauze and foam, tailor therapy to the wound bed; • Built‑in safety shut‑off that activates if pressure deviates from set parameters.
Indications for Use
The PICO 7 is indicated for acute, chronic, and complex wounds requiring negative pressure therapy, including surgical, traumatic, and pressure ulcers. It is suitable for wounds with moderate exudate, where a single‑use, closed‑system dressing is preferred for patient comfort and compliance. ———————————
Approved Wound Types and Clinical Scenarios
The PICO 7 dressing is compatible with fillers gauze foam and matrices based on characteristics. The system’s battery life supports 24 hours of therapy, and the device alerts when the fluid reservoir is nearing capacity, prompting and dressing changes. This device is approved for use on acute surgical incisions, traumatic dehiscences, and chronic ulcers such as venous stasis, diabetic foot, and pressure injuries. It can also be applied to donor sites, ostomy sites, and peristomal wounds where controlled suction promotes granulation. In open fractures with moderate exudate, the PICO 7 provides a closed system that reduces infection risk. The dressing is suitable for wounds up to 5 cm deep, and the integrated fluid‑management pack allows efficient collection of exudate. Clinicians can customize the therapy by selecting appropriate fillers; gauze provides a loose fill for superficial wounds, while foam offers better conformability for irregular surfaces. The system’s lightweight design and single‑use nature make it ideal for outpatient settings and home care, where portability and ease of use are essential. The PICO 7 can be used in conjunction with topical agents or advanced dressings to create a comprehensive plan tailored to each patient’s needs. Because the suction is delivered at a tolerable level, the device is suitable for patients with mild to moderate pain, reducing the need for additional analgesia. Overall, the PICO 7 offers versatility, safety, and convenience across a spectrum of wound types and clinical scenarios. Its lightweight, single‑use design facilitates rapid deployment and reduces the risk of contamination during dressing changes. Clinicians daily its lightweight, single‑use design facilitates rapid deployment and reduces the risk of contamination during dressing changes.!!!
Contraindications and Precautions
Absolute contraindications include exposed bone, untreated osteomyelitis, and wounds with fistulas. Relative contraindications: infection, edema, pacemakers. Use caution near electrical devices and maintain 4‑inch clearance and mild pain for patient care in for
Absolute and Relative Contraindications for the PICO 7
Absolute contraindications: exposed bone or tendon, untreated osteomyelitis, necrotic tissue with eschar, active bleeding, untreated infection, wounds with fistula or abscess, and patients with pacemakers or ICDs. Relative contraindications include severe edema, uncontrolled systemic infection, severe peripheral vascular disease, pregnancy, and hypersensitivity to dressing components. The device should not be applied to wounds too deep for the dressing, or with exposed organs or major vessels. Use is contraindicated in patients unable to tolerate suction or with untreated venous stasis ulcers. Precautions: maintain a 4‑inch distance from other electronic devices to avoid magnetic interference, apply dressing correctly to prevent air leaks, and monitor for pain or discomfort; Only trained personnel may use the system, following the full IFU and local protocols. If any contraindication exists, alternative wound care should be chosen. In suspected infection, obtain a culture before therapy. Inspect the dressing daily for integrity and leakage. Discontinue therapy if exudate increases or the wound worsens. The PICO 7 is not indicated after prior negative pressure therapy without a 24‑hour break. Avoid use in active, uncontrolled bleeding or wounds unsuitable for negative pressure due to drains or tubes that could be displaced by suction. Additionally, patients with a history of allergic reaction to polyurethane or silicone components should be evaluated for alternative dressings. The dressing must be inspected for any signs of contamination or compromise before each change. Replace reassess status!!!.
Preparation and Setup
Clean wound per protocol, apply sterile dressing, ensure no debris. Position the PICO 7 pump at least 10 cm from other electronics to avoid interference. Attach the fluid‑management pack, secure the dressing, and verify an airtight seal before starting therapy. Verify seal before use now!
Initial Cleaning, Sterilization, and Device Positioning Guidelines
Prior to dressing application, the wound must be cleaned and prepared following the institution’s protocol. Begin by establishing a sterile field, then irrigate the wound with normal saline or a suitable irrigant to remove debris, exudate, and any necrotic tissue. After irrigation, gently pat the wound dry with sterile gauze, taking care to avoid disrupting the wound bed or causing trauma.
Inspect the PICO 7 dressing for any defects or contamination. If the dressing is compromised, replace it before proceeding. When the dressing is ready, align the adhesive border with the wound edges to create a continuous seal. Place the suction port directly over the wound center, ensuring that the fluid‑management pack is securely attached to the pump. The pump should be positioned at least 10 cm (4 in) away from other electronic medical devices to prevent magnetic interference.
Document the dressing site, device settings, and any observations in the patient’s chart. Record the time of application, the pressure setting selected, and any patient discomfort noted. This documentation ensures continuity of care and facilitates monitoring of wound healing progress. Follow institutional policies for storage and disposal of single‑use components after therapy completion.
Maintain a clean environment, keep the dressing dry, and monitor for signs of infection such as redness or increased exudate. and patient comfort!
Dressing Application Technique
Place the PICO 7 dressing over the wound, ensuring the adhesive edge contacts skin for a seal. Align the suction port centrally, attach the fluid pack, and secure the pump 10 cm away from other electronics. Verify seal integrity, then activate suction!! Check for air leaks and adjust seal now.
Step‑by‑Step Dressing Placement and Seal Verification
Inspect the wound surface for debris and ensure it is clean per local protocol. 2. Remove the protective film from the PICO 7 dressing and align the adhesive edge with the wound margin. 3. Gently press the dressing onto the skin, smoothing out any wrinkles to create an airtight seal. 4. Secure the dressing with the provided adhesive strips, ensuring no gaps. 5. Attach the fluid‑management pack to the suction port, then connect the pump, keeping it at least 10 cm from other devices to avoid interference. 6. Activate suction and observe the dressing for any air leaks; a bubble‑free seal indicates proper placement. 7. Confirm the seal by lightly tapping the dressing; a steady, silent response confirms no air escape. 8. Document the placement time and any observations in the patient record. 9. If a leak is detected, reposition the dressing, re‑seal, and re‑activate suction. 10. Once sealed, monitor the dressing for integrity throughout the therapy period. 11. After activation, inspect the dressing for any visible gaps or folds that could compromise suction. 12. If a gap is found, gently adjust the dressing edges and re‑apply adhesive to ensure a continuous seal. 13. Verify suction by observing the fluid‑management pack; a steady, steady‑flow indicates correct pressure. 14. If the fluid pack shows a sudden drop in pressure, check for occlusion or disconnection before proceeding. 15. Document any adjustments made and the final seal status in the wound care log for audit and continuity. 16. Dress until the shift.
Negative Pressure Settings and Management
Set suction to 125 mmHg, adjust per wound type. Use the fluid‑management pack to monitor output; replace when full. Keep pump 10 cm from other devices. Verify seal before activation. Record pressure and dressing status daily Check for leaks daily.!!!!!
Recommended Pressure Ranges and Fluid Management Pack Use
For most acute and chronic wounds, the PICO 7 system delivers continuous negative pressure of 125 mmHg, a setting proven to enhance granulation, reduce edema, and improve perfusion. In highly exudative wounds or those with large fluid reservoirs, a lower pressure of 75 mmHg is advised to prevent excessive fluid removal and tissue maceration. For low‑exudate wounds or when more aggressive debridement is needed, a higher pressure of 150 mmHg may be selected, provided patient tolerance and wound characteristics permit. The device monitors the pressure waveform and alerts the user if the set pressure deviates beyond ±10 % of the target. The integrated fluid‑management pack captures all exudate and displays a visual fluid‑volume indicator. Inspect the pack at each dressing change; replace it when the indicator reaches “full.” The pack contains a filter that protects the pump motor and extends device longevity. Keep the pack away from heat sources and ensure it is sealed during transport. The PICO 7’s single‑use design eliminates the need for pack sterilization, but aseptic technique must still be followed when attaching the dressing. A well‑sealed dressing, combined with the recommended pressure range and timely fluid‑management pack replacement, ensures optimal therapy and reduces complications such as infection or device malfunction. Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for pack replacement intervals, typically every 48–72 hours for high‑exudate wounds, and adjust based on clinical assessment and fluid output readings. Clinicians should record all pressure settings, fluid volumes, and dressing changes in the patient’s chart to support continuity of care and improvement, and review outcomes regularly for best practice guidelines now. —care.!!
Monitoring and Dressing Changes
Check the device display every 4–6 h for alarms. Inspect the dressing for leaks, odor, or fluid accumulation. Replace the dressing and fluid pack every 48–72 h, or sooner if saturated. Document pressure, exudate volume, and wound appearance in the chart. Check for seal integrity and patient comfort!
Schedule for Filler and Dressing Replacement and Wound Assessment
Daily assessment of the wound bed, exudate characteristics, and dressing integrity is essential. The PICO 7 system recommends the following schedule for filler and dressing changes:
- Initial application: apply a sterile filler that loosely fills the wound cavity, ensuring the surface is covered but not overpacked.
- Filler replacement: change the filler every 48–72 hours, or sooner if the wound bed shows increased exudate or if the filler becomes saturated.
- Dressing replacement: replace the PICO dressing every 48–72 hours, or immediately if a leak, odor, or fluid accumulation is detected.
- Fluid‑management pack: replace the pack when the indicator shows a full volume or when the suction pressure drops below the set threshold.
- Wound assessment: document wound dimensions, granulation tissue, and any signs of infection at each dressing change. Adjust the therapy plan based on clinical findings.
Adhering to this schedule ensures optimal negative‑pressure delivery, prevents fluid overload, and promotes progressive wound healing while minimizing the risk of complications.
Weekly reviews should incorporate wound photography, measurement of wound dimensions, and assessment of granulation tissue quality. Record any signs of infection or exudate changes. Adjust therapy settings based on clinical response, ensuring comfort and device integrity throughout the treatment course. daily monitoring
Troubleshooting and Safety Considerations
Check for leaks, device interference, and battery status. If suction drops, verify the dressing seal and fluid pack. For magnetic interference, keep the PICO 7 >10 cm from other devices. In emergencies, disconnect and seek help. Handle gently.
Common Issues, Device Interference, and Emergency Procedures
When suction drops, inspect the dressing seal for gaps or air leaks; ensure the fluid‑management pack is correctly seated. If the device displays a low‑battery warning, replace the battery pack before resuming therapy. Interference from nearby magnetic or electronic equipment can disrupt operation; maintain a minimum distance of 10 cm from such devices. For sudden loss of suction, first check the tubing for kinks or disconnections, then verify the pump is powered. If the device fails to start or displays an error code, disconnect the power source, reset the unit, and consult the user manual. In emergencies, remove the dressing, stop therapy, and seek immediate medical attention. Always follow the manufacturer’s safety guidelines and local protocols. The system’s battery indicator alerts when power is low; replace the battery pack promptly to avoid therapy interruption. Verify that the suction tubing is free of kinks and that the fluid‑management pack is properly seated to maintain continuous negative pressure. If the dressing becomes wet or the seal is compromised, perform a quick inspection and replace the dressing immediately to prevent infection. During dressing changes, keep the wound area dry and use sterile technique. Document any changes in wound appearance, exudate volume, or patient discomfort in the clinical record. Follow institutional protocols for wound assessment and adjust therapy settings accordingly. Check seal integrity.