Wound Drainage System Management

Initial Steps

• Perform hand hygiene.
• Ensure patient privacy.
• Introduce yourself to the patient.
• Identify the patient using two identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth).
  • Example: "Can you tell me your name?" "Yes, it's Taylor." "And your date of birth?" "April 14, 1952."

Assessing and Managing the Drainage System

• Apply clean gloves.
• Determine the type of drainage system in use.
  • Example systems: HemaVac, ConstaVac, Jackson Pratt.
• Check the presence and type of drainage expected from each wound.
• Place a waterproof pad and a graduated cylinder or specimen container on the bed.

Emptying a HemaVac or ConstaVac Drain

1. Open the plug on the port where the drainage reservoir empties using aseptic technique.
2. Tilt the suction container toward the plug and then toward the measuring container.
3. Allow contents to drain completely.
4. Use an alcohol swab to cleanse the opening and plug.
5. Press down on the suction device until surfaces contact, and replace the plug.
6. Confirm that a vacuum is re-established and tubing is patent.

Emptying a Jackson Pratt Drain

1. Open the port at the top of the bulb-shaped reservoir.
2. Tilt the bulb toward the port and drain the contents.
3. Use an alcohol swab to cleanse the end of the emptying port and plug.
4. Compress the bulb, then replace the plug to close the port.

Ensuring Patient Comfort and Safety

• Place the drainage system below the wound site.
• Secure it to the patient’s gown with a safety pin.
• Ensure tubing is not pulled tight; provide room for patient movement without tension on the tube or dressing.

Documentation and Follow-up

• Note characteristics and volume of drainage before disposal.
• Dispose of used supplies.
• Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene.
• Periodically observe the drainage for leakage.
• Assess patient's pain, using a scale from 0 to 10.
• Record volume of drainage on the intake and output form in the patient's medical record.

Reminders

• Follow aseptic technique throughout the process.
• Regularly check and adjust the system to maintain patient comfort and device function.
• Communicate with the patient about their comfort and any concerns.