Search the site for providers, locations, and content.
Main Menu
Recovery
At first caring for your child's surgical drain may seem like it's complicated and a lot to do. But each
At first caring for your child's surgical drain may seem like it's complicated and a lot to do. But eachtime you do it, it gets easier. You'll get the hang of it sooner than you think.The surgical drain helps get rid of fluid that can collect inside your child's body after surgery. Thedrain lets the fluid out and helps prevent infections.Now let's take a look at the parts of a surgical drain.The drain has a tube that connects to a container. You can hook the container to your child's clotheswith a safety pin… to keep it in place.Okay, now let's go over how to… empty the container… clear the tube… and change the bandage.To begin, wash your hands with soap and water… And then put on a pair of disposable gloves.To empty the container, take out the plug.Some drains have a bulb that you can squeeze to get all thefluid out.Empty the fluid into a measuring cup… and write down the amount… and the color.Next, wipe the plug clean with alcohol. Then squeeze the air out of the container until it's flat, andthen put the plug back in.Empty the fluid from the cup into the toilet and wash the cup… and then wash your hands again.Howoften you empty the container depends on how much fluid there is. Doctors often recommendemptying it when it's about half full.Sometimes the tube can get clogged. Here's how to clear it:Use one hand to firmly hold the tube, close to your child's body. With your other hand, pinch the tubewith your thumb and finger.Slide your thumb and finger… while squeezing… slowly down the tube toward the container. Repeatthis until the tube is clear.If you have a bandage around the drain, follow any instructions you've been given for how often tochange it.When you change the bandage… gently clean the area with soap and water before putting on a newbandage.As your child heals, make sure the drain fluid is getting lighter in color… and that there's less of it overtime. The fluid will be bloody at first… and as the wound heals, it *should* change color… from red topink… to light yellow or mostly clear.Call your doctor if you see signs of infection, such as increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness…red streaks leading from the incision… pus draining from the incision… or a fever. And call yourdoctor if the fluid looks cloudy or smells bad… or if the drain comes out or stops working.You knowyour child best, so if something doesn't seem right, you can always call.Until it's time to have the drain removed, taking good care of your child's surgical drain helps withhealing… and avoiding problems. If you're a little nervous right now, that's okay… Just think of all theways you've always taken care of your child. You can do this too.This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.© The Wellness Network
Featured in
Our Member and Recipient Services Team is here to help you understand your benefits, find care, or resolve concerns.
Need support to quit smoking, vaping, or to quit other nicotine products? You can receive support including medicines free of charge:
Need transportation to a doctor's office, pharmacy, or other covered healthcare service? Contact us to arrange your ride.
Need to find a provider like a Primary Care Physician, Specialist, OB/GYN, or a Psychiatrist?
Watch this to learn what a laparoscopy is and how the procedure is done.
Watch this video with your child to learn from Bryson about type 1 diabetes in children.
Here are the facts behind some common concerns about spinal fusion.
Watch this video to learn what to expect during a Minimally Invasive Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting procedure.
