Page 332 - CHHA Binder 2.3.20

4/11/2019

Post-Drainage Assessment

 Perform patient assessment, including vital signs, pulse
oximetry and respiratory assessment. Most common
complications of draining the pleural or peritoneal fluid at
home are pain, infection, and/or hypotension. If these or
any other problems occur during drainage, instruct
patient/caregiver to call the physician.

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Post Drainage Assessment

The nurse and/or patient/caregiver should complete the drainage
procedure and notify physician if any of the following signs and symptoms
occur:

 erythema, edema or excess exudate at catheter exit site
 SOB not relieved by draining fluid
 chest pain/chest pressure
 fever ≥ 100.5 F/38C
 less than 25-50 ml of drainage for 3 drainages in a row
 appearance of fluid changes significantly between drainages
 dizziness, blurred vision, confusion or weakness
 If the catheter is cut or damaged, clamp the catheter between the damaged
site and the catheter exit site and notify the physician immediately after
clamping

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