What it means
A surgical drain lets fluid that would collect under the skin or in a cavity flow out, so it does not cause swelling, infection or pressure. Passive drains, such as a Penrose drain, let fluid run out by gravity onto a dressing. Closed-suction drains, such as a Jackson-Pratt (a bulb) or a Hemovac (a spring container), pull fluid out with gentle suction. Chest tubes drain air or fluid from around the lungs.
For the nurse
Empty and measure the drainage as ordered, record its amount and color, and squeeze the bulb flat again before closing it to restore suction. Keep the tubing free of kinks and secured to avoid pulling. Report a sudden increase, bright red blood or cloudy, foul drainage.
In a chart
"JP drain emptied: 40 mL serosanguineous over 8 hours; bulb compressed and recapped."
At a glance
| Spanish | drenaje |
|---|---|
| Also written | drains, surgical drain, surgical drains |
Related terms
mastectomy
Surgery to remove all or part of a breast.
exudate
Fluid, cells or other material that has leaked out of blood vessels into a wound or tissue.
wound healing
The body's process of repairing damaged skin and tissue.
surgery
Treatment in which a surgeon operates on the body, usually by cutting into it, to repair, remove or examine tissue.