This document provides instructions for caring for various types of drainage tubes and recording output. It specifies that drains should be emptied regularly, the fluid measured and disposed of properly, and the output recorded. A special Stryker reinfusion drain is also described which collects and filters blood post-operatively to allow for reinfusion by a nurse, as long as certain volume and timing requirements are met.

1. Drain Care
Drainage output helps determine progression of healing
If more than one drain is present, label and document separately
Davol
• emptied every shift and recorded
• measure and dispose of fluid
• pump the bulb until the balloon fills the chamber
• close the port by reinserting the plug
NG tube
• emptied as needed - canister changed every 72 hours
• measure, mark, and record output every 8 hours

2. Drain Care (continued)
Jackson-Pratt (JP)/Blake
• emptied every 8 hours or as needed
• open the tip of the bulb, measure, and record volume
• completely decompress bulb to reestablish the vacuum
Depuy - monitored every shift (but never emptied)
• ensure that clamp is open for drainage
• mark and date the output every 8 hours
• change when full or not working
Penrose
• emptied every 8 hours
• record drainage in ostomy bag or number of dressing changes if
no bag is used

3. Drain Care (continued)
Stryker reinfusion drain
• Closed blood recovery system used post operatively to
collect, filter, and allow for reinfusion of autologous blood
• Must not be turned upside down at any time
• Only an RN can reinfuse the Stryker drain
• Must have at least 300 ml for the first transfer
• An amount of fluid remains in the reservoir after transfer - this
should not be reinfused
• After reinfusion is discontinued (six hours) from the time written on
the front of the drain, the drain is cut and capped off
• The unit functions as a wound drain at this time
• Canister is then emptied every shift