This video will show you how to empty your biliary or abscess drainage bag, measure the drainage, and record the amount of drainage in your drainage log.
In this video, we’ll show how to empty your biliary or abscess drainage bag, measure the drainage, and record the amount of drainage in your drainage log. You need to empty your drainage bag and measure your drainage at least twice a day.
Before you start, make sure you have all the supplies you’ll need in front of you. You’ll need:
- A measuring container
- Non-sterile gloves
- A dry piece of gauze or an alcohol wipe
- Your drainage log
- And a pen
If your measuring container has a cover, you should open it now.
First, you should know the parts of your drainage system. This is the catheter, and this is the drainage bag. We will explain each part as we show you how to empty your drainage bag.
The best way to prevent infection is to keep your hands clean. If you’re washing your hands with soap and water, wet your hands and apply soap. Rub them together for 20 seconds, then rinse. Dry your hands with a paper towel and use that same towel to turn off the faucet.
If you’re using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, cover all parts of your hands with it, then rub them together until they’re dry. Cleaning your hands properly, also called hand hygiene, is an important part of caring for your drainage catheter.
After you’ve cleaned your hands, put on your gloves.
To empty your drainage bag, hold the bag with 1 hand. Flip the bag so the cap is pointing up. Use your other hand to twist the cap counterclockwise to open the bag.
Carefully flip your drainage bag back down and let the drainage empty into the measuring container. When your drainage bag is empty, flip the bag back up and twist the cap clockwise to close it.
Wipe the cap with the dry gauze or alcohol wipe to clean off any drainage.
Check how much drainage is in the measuring container, then empty it into the toilet and flush.
Throw away your gloves and clean your hands.
Write the amount of drainage that was in the measuring container in your drainage log. Bring this log with you to your next appointment with your doctor.
If you have any questions, contact your healthcare provider.
You can also visit msk.org/pe to search for educational resources, videos, and online programs.
