Final answer:
You should not ignore a lack of drainage in medical tubing; assess the situation and if unresolved, promptly notify a healthcare professional such as a nurse or doctor to prevent complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you notice a lack of drainage in the tubing where it was present before, you should NOT ignore the issue. Improper drainage can lead to a variety of complications, including infection or a backup of fluid that was meant to be drained. The first step is to assess the situation to understand why the drainage has stopped. Check for any kinks or obstructions in the tubing and ensure that the collection system is below the level of the drainage site, as gravity helps facilitate drainage. After basic troubleshooting, if the issue persists, it is crucial to notify the appropriate healthcare professional, which could be a nurse or a doctor, depending on the setting. You should never attempt to redress or fix the issue on your own as it could lead to contamination or injury.