Emptying a Closed Wound Drainage System

Emptying a Closed Wound Drainage System

Equipment
■ Drainage container with graduated markings.
■ Nonsterile procedure gloves.
■ Disposal sink for biomaterial.
■ Biohazard disposal receptacle.

Assessment
■ Assess the appearance of the drainage tube site and sutures, if in place.
■ Inspect for warmth, edema, redness, or pus where tubing penetrates the skin.
■ Be sure the closed-wound drainage system is securely fastened at the connections and within the wound.
■ Be Smart! Determine whether suction (electric, portable, or manual) is working properly.

Key Points
■ Be Safe! Don PPE as needed, including nonsterile procedure gloves, gown, and eyewear.
■ Properly dispose of contaminated items into designated biohazard waste receptacles.
■ Measure drainage and report excess volume to the primary care provider.

Documentation
■ Date and time the drainage system is emptied.
■ Volume lost.
■ Excess fluid loss.
■ Appearance of drainage, including presence of blood or purulent material.

Opening the drainage port and emptying the fluid into a graduated

container