Write an article based on this "Pay attention to the drainage. Monitor the wound site. Keep the area clean. Secure the drains."
Usually, the drainage is bloody following surgery, but as time passes it should become straw-colored, then clear. The drainage should never look cloudy or like pus. Notice the amount of drainage for every 24 hours. Your doctor should have given you a marked plastic container so you can track how many cubic centimeters (cc) or milliliters (ml) of fluid were drained. Check this every time you empty the JP drain, usually every eight to 12 hours. The amount of fluid should decrease as time passes. You'll probably also be given a data sheet, to log the amount at the time of drainage. Usually drains can be pulled (by your surgical staff) when drainage is less than 30 100 cc in 24 hours. It is important that you have good communication with your surgeon and the staff. You'll need to attend follow-up appointments for wound observation and drainage removal. You should also report any issues or concerns you have. If you notice any of the following, get call your doctor: Edges of the wound are red Pus or thick drainage Foul odor coming from the incision/insertion site Fever, greater than 101F (38.3C) Pain at surgical site Bathing and showering can be challenging with JP drains, but with some help you should be able to gently clean the site. Be sure to get your doctor's permission before bathing or showering, especially if you still have bandages. If you're allowed to bathe or shower, gently wash the area and make sure it's completely dry when you're done. If you're not allowed to bathe or shower, carefully clean the area around the drain using a washcloth or gauze. If you need additional help, communicate this to the office staff for a visiting nurse referral. Some surgeons will have a visiting nurse come out daily to help you with a sponge bathe and washing your hair. Or consider having a family member help you bathe. Use a safety pin and attach the pin through the plastic loop on top of the JP bulb. Wear loose fitting clothing and attach your drains to your clothing, like a loose shirt. Pin the drains to anchor them. This way, they won't get tangled or pulled out. JP drains that are attached to clothing may also feel more comfortable. You might try using a fanny pack to secure the JP drains around your waist. Avoid pinning them to your pants. If you accidentally forget they're there, you may pull down your pants and remove the drains.