Question

A nurse is planning care for a client who is postoperative following a laparotomy and has a closed-suction drain. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to manage the drain?

A) Clamp the drain during ambulation
B) Empty the drain every 8 hours
C) Strip the drain tubing
D) Keep the drainage bag below the level of the incision

Answer 1

To manage a closed-suction drain postoperatively, the nurse should keep the drainage bag below the level of the incision and empty the drain based on output, not on a strict 8-hour schedule. Stripping the tubing can be done with caution.

Step-by-step explanation:

To manage a closed-suction drain after a laparotomy, the nurse should take several actions to ensure proper functioning and prevent complications. One of these actions is to keep the drainage bag below the level of the incision to facilitate gravity drainage and prevent fluids from flowing back into the incision site. While emptying the drain may be done regularly, it doesn't necessarily need to be every 8 hours but rather according to the volume of output and hospital protocols. Stripping the drain tubing can help prevent clots from occluding the drain but should be done with care to avoid damage to the tissue. Clamping the drain is generally not recommended during ambulation, as it may cause pressure to build up and impede proper drainage.