Abdominal Drain Care

General · Surgery · 10–20 min

Routine daily care and monitoring of surgical abdominal drains.

Indications

  • Post-op drain in situ

Equipment

  • Sterile dressing pack
  • Chlorhexidine
  • Measuring cylinder

Positioning

  • As appropriate for the procedure and patient comfort.

Consent

  • Explain indication, benefits, alternatives
  • Explain risks & complications
  • Obtain written/verbal consent as per SOP
  • Document consent

Universal precautions

  • Hand hygiene
  • PPE — gloves, mask, eye protection
  • Aseptic technique
  • Sharps safety
  • Verify patient identity & site

Step-by-step (0/5)

Tap to complete

1. Inspect site

Erythema, leak, sutures.

2. Measure output

3. Milk tubing

4. Dressing change

5. Removal

Immediate complications

  • Dislodgement
  • Bleeding on removal

Delayed complications

  • Fistula
  • Infection

Recognition

  • Fever, new leak

Initial management

  • Escalate to surgical team

Prevention

  • Secure fixation

Post-procedure observation

  • Vitals q15min × 1h then hourly

Monitoring

  • Site inspection
  • Symptom review

Documentation

  • Procedure note
  • Consent
  • Findings

Patient instructions

  • Report pain, bleeding, fever, worsening symptoms

Educational bedside guide. Perform only under supervision until competent. Follow local SOPs and consent policy.

WardRound

WardRound

Clinical Decisions in Seconds