Shortening a Wound Drain

Shortening a Wound Drain

Equipment
■ Nonsterile procedure gloves.
■ Sterile gloves.
■ Sterile scissors.
■ 2 safety pins or other clips (sterile).
■ Sterile gauze.

Assessment
■ Inspect the site around the drain for skin excoriation, tenderness, erythema, warmth to the touch, and drainage from the wound.
■ Assess characteristics of the drainage (color, volume, presence of blood, odor, or pus; and change in type or amount).
■ Check the suction apparatus to be sure it is functioning properly.

Post-Procedure Reassessment
■ Assess the skin around the drain after manipulating it. Note drain patency and be sure the drain is secure.
■ Evaluate for complications occurring related to shortening procedure.

Key Points
■ Using procedure gloves, remove the wound dressing. Discard in a moisture-proof biohazard container.
■ Open sterile supplies and don sterile gloves.
■ Be Smart! If the drain is tightly sutured in place, you might need to cut it with sterile scissors.
■ Be Safe! Firmly grasp the full width of the drain at the level of the skin and pull it out by the prescribed amount (e.g., 6 mm [1/4 in.]).
■ Insert a sterile safety pin through the drain at the level of the skin. Hold the drain tightly, and insert the pin above your fingers.
■ Using sterile scissors, cut the drain a little above the safety pin.

Documentation
■ Record:
■ Amount and characteristics of the drainage.
■ Appearance of the wound.
■ Complications that occur (e.g., manipulation of tubing causes bleeding or drainage at the site).