Many surgical operations that involve the opening up of cavities require that a drainage tube be inserted to help get rid of any fluid that may accumulate within the cavity. Such may include blood, pus or serous fluid. Different types of drains can be used depending on the type of operation that has been performed, the type of wound as well as the preference of the surgeon. We will look at how a drain tube after surgery should be handled.
Removal of fluid is done either actively or passively. In passive removal the fluid flows under gravity usually into a jar that is located at a lower level than the patient. The active approach, in contrast, uses a suction machine. The method that is chosen is dependent on the type of surgery that has been performed as well as the consistency and amount of fluid that is expected.
The initial inspection should be done immediately the patient is received into the ward from the operating theater. It is important to ensure that the tube is functioning properly. If one notices any leakage, redness or oozing at the insertion site, the same should be documented and the surgeon informed. Kinked and knotted areas should be identified and rectified. The drain should be well secured with tape or sutures.
During subsequent ward rounds, the same routine should be repeated. In addition signs of sepsis need to be monitored. These will include for instance, the presence of fever, redness at the site of insertion, increased tenderness and increased ooze. The other members of the surgical team have to be informed as well so as to institute the next form of management. Blood cultures may have to be done so as to identify the organism involved.
Ensure that you observe for patency at the beginning and at the end of your shift and that you document appropriately. Ensure also that you observe the same after moving the patient. If a drain becomes blocked, there is a high probability that the fluids will accumulate within the cavity and lead to infections and pain. Consequently, the wound will heal at a much slower rate and the stay of the patient in hospital will be prolonged.
If you encounter a leakage, attempt to seal it using dressing reinforcement and more adhesive tape. Dislodgements and blockages are more difficult to deal with. Ensure that the head of the team is informed so that replacement can be done. Granulation tissue is a common cause of blockage and also makes removal difficult. Surgery is often needed.
Removal is usually done when the amount of fluid in the collecting jar is less than 25 milliliters per day. Typically, the tube is pulled out and the defect closed with a stitch. Patient should be warned that the process may be a bit painful and should be provided with painkillers if need be. An alternative practice involves gradual withdrawal over a few days. Proponents of this approach argue that it helps the insertion wound to heal faster.
The patient may be released from hospital even before they fully recover. Wound dressing is continued so are oral antibiotics. Drainage may continue for a few more days but healing typically occurs within five to seven weeks. Patients should be taught on the danger signs to look out for.
Removal of fluid is done either actively or passively. In passive removal the fluid flows under gravity usually into a jar that is located at a lower level than the patient. The active approach, in contrast, uses a suction machine. The method that is chosen is dependent on the type of surgery that has been performed as well as the consistency and amount of fluid that is expected.
The initial inspection should be done immediately the patient is received into the ward from the operating theater. It is important to ensure that the tube is functioning properly. If one notices any leakage, redness or oozing at the insertion site, the same should be documented and the surgeon informed. Kinked and knotted areas should be identified and rectified. The drain should be well secured with tape or sutures.
During subsequent ward rounds, the same routine should be repeated. In addition signs of sepsis need to be monitored. These will include for instance, the presence of fever, redness at the site of insertion, increased tenderness and increased ooze. The other members of the surgical team have to be informed as well so as to institute the next form of management. Blood cultures may have to be done so as to identify the organism involved.
Ensure that you observe for patency at the beginning and at the end of your shift and that you document appropriately. Ensure also that you observe the same after moving the patient. If a drain becomes blocked, there is a high probability that the fluids will accumulate within the cavity and lead to infections and pain. Consequently, the wound will heal at a much slower rate and the stay of the patient in hospital will be prolonged.
If you encounter a leakage, attempt to seal it using dressing reinforcement and more adhesive tape. Dislodgements and blockages are more difficult to deal with. Ensure that the head of the team is informed so that replacement can be done. Granulation tissue is a common cause of blockage and also makes removal difficult. Surgery is often needed.
Removal is usually done when the amount of fluid in the collecting jar is less than 25 milliliters per day. Typically, the tube is pulled out and the defect closed with a stitch. Patient should be warned that the process may be a bit painful and should be provided with painkillers if need be. An alternative practice involves gradual withdrawal over a few days. Proponents of this approach argue that it helps the insertion wound to heal faster.
The patient may be released from hospital even before they fully recover. Wound dressing is continued so are oral antibiotics. Drainage may continue for a few more days but healing typically occurs within five to seven weeks. Patients should be taught on the danger signs to look out for.
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