Surgery Immersion Flashcards

Question

What scar is this?

Answer 1

A

A drain will prevent the accumulation of fluid or air that could : serve to hinder healing , provide an environment favorable to bacteria, or result in the need for further surgery.

Answer 2

A

Preventing infection (if left in for >7 days increase the risk of secondary infection)
Stopping bleeding (blood clotts and plugs drains)
Drains can not drain the entire abdomen (The abdomen will grow to wall off any drain within ~48 hours)
Drains can not be relied on without maintenance – they need to be continually assessed for patency and functionality.

Answer 3

A

Allow the build up of fluid or air a simple tract by which to exit
Ex: Foley catheter

Answer 4

A

Function by pulling fluid out of a cavity
They can develop excessive suction
Ex: Chest tube

Answer 5

A

Utilize a built in air port to keep the tissue from plugging the drain
Ex: Nasogastric tube

Answer 6

A

Gravity
Pressure
Surface tension

Answer 7

A

Gravity
Applied force (generation of low pressure for suction)

Answer 8

A

The addition of an air port allows air to be pulled into the tube to help prevent the development of excessive suction and tissue intussusceptions into the drain

Excess suction can both potentiate continued leakage by facilitating flow and can pull surrounding tissue into the drain and plug it.

Answer 9

A

Patency
- Monitor for sudden changes in output
- Check connections & bulb/ suction for function
- Empty collection container when ½ to ¾ full
Character of drainage
- Sudden presence of blood may indicate drain erosion into tissue
- Sudden change in the color of the drainage may indicate a fistula or abscess
Special considerations for sump drains
- Do you hear air moving?
- Is there fluid in the air port?

Answer 10

A

When they are no longer needed (fluid is gone or has reached acceptable level)
When the risk benefit ratio is exceeded (Risk of secondary infection, Possible tissue erosion)
When they are non-functional