Abscess Post-Drainage Care

Surgery · Surgery · 10–20 min

Ongoing care and pack changes after abscess drainage.

Indications

  • Post I&D

Equipment

  • Dressing pack
  • Saline
  • Gauze

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 (0/4)

Tap to complete

1. Review

48h; expect reducing pain and discharge.

2. Remove pack

3. Irrigate & repack

4. Observe healing

Delayed complications

  • Non-healing
  • Recurrence

Recognition

  • Persistent discharge > 2 wk

Initial management

  • Investigate for fistula / underlying cause

Prevention

  • Adequate initial drainage

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.

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