Evaluation of Drain Output Monitoring in Surgical Ward

The output from surgical drains often guides management as drains are commonly not removed until the wound bed drains < 50 mls a day. A drain must be emptied and measured at least once every shift and cleaned using sterile technique according to Trust protocol. Failure to have a clear 24-hour output often results in drains that could be safely removed staying in-situ for a further day, increasing the risk of unnecessary pain and infection. Our purpose was to identify the number of patients undergoing major surgery or advised by the surgeon do they have drain output (DO) monitoring in place. Prospective data were collected over 2 weeks by patients’ record review and bedside examination. 8 patients had drain in situ during this period. Drain output was monitored in 7 patients. Only 4 patients had a plan in place for drain output monitoring. Monitoring the output from surgical drains is important part of post-operative care. Appropriate drain output monitoring would improve patient safety, the efficiency of patient discharge and the stress of the surgical ward round.