The nurse is caring for a patient who has a Jackson-Pratt drain in place on postoperative day 1.The NAP reports there is no drainage and the patient is complaining of pain at the site.What should the nurse do first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

It is important to compare amount and characteristics of drainage with what is expected to determine patency of tubing and functioning of the drainage evacuator.You would expect some drainage on postoperative day 1,so the nurse should inspect for drainage around the tubing,which may indicate lack of vacuum or obstruction of the drainage system and then notify the healthcare provider if there is an obstruction.The nurse should reestablish a seal and see if there is drainage that comes out.Rating the patient's pain and giving pain medications would be done after the drain is managed.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Has a Jackson-Pratt