Question

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

a) Empty the drainage container every 24 hours
b) Clamp the drain when the drainage decreases
c) Milk the tubing to promote drainage
d) Keep the drainage container below the level of the incision

Answer 1

To manage a closed-suction drain post-laparotomy, the nurse should keep the drainage container below the incision level and milk the tubing if needed, per protocol. The nurse should not clamp the drain without orders, and should empty the container more frequently than every 24 hours.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse planning care for a client postoperative following a laparotomy with a closed-suction drain should manage the drain by performing various actions to ensure proper healing and to avoid infection. One important action is to keep the drainage container below the level of the incision to ensure gravity assists with drainage and prevents fluid from flowing back into the incision site. Another action includes milking the tubing if necessary, to promote drainage and prevent clogging, though this should be done with caution and as per the healthcare facility's protocol. It is not recommended to clamp the drain when the drainage decreases without specific orders, as this may lead to fluid accumulation and increased risk of infection. The drainage container should be emptied more frequently than every 24 hours, typically when it's half full or according to the facility's protocol, to accurately measure output and maintain suction.