Tru-Close Drain Care
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 1, 2023.
AMBULATORY CARE:
What you need to know about a Tru-Close® drain:
- A Tru-Close® drain is a closed suction drainage system. It is used to remove fluids that build up in an area of your body. The drain is a device with squeezable bellows attached to a collection bag which is connected to a tube. One end of the tube is placed inside the area to be drained. The other end comes out through a small cut in your skin, called the drain site. The device is connected to this end. You may have one or more stitches to hold the tube in place.
- The bellows on the device are squeezed flat to create suction in the tube. Fluid drains through the tube, through the bellows and into the collection bag. Ask your healthcare provider how to care for the drain at home.
Seek care immediately if:
- Your drain breaks or comes out.
- You are bleeding from your drain site.
- The drainage from your drain site smells bad or looks different.
Contact your healthcare provider if:
- You suddenly stop draining fluid or think your drain is blocked.
- You have a fever higher than 101.5°F (38.6°C) and chills.
- You have increased pain, redness, or swelling around the drain site.
- You have questions or concerns about your drain care.
Empty the drain:
Empty the drain when it is half full or every 4 to 8 hours:
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Empty the fluid in the bellows into the bag.
- Unscrew the port on the bottom of the bag over a measuring cup.
- Let the fluid drain into the cup.
- Clean the port with an alcohol swab or a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol.
- Squeeze the bellows flat and screw the port closed.
- Make sure the tubing is not kinked or twisted. Refasten to your clothes below your surgery site so it does not pull at your skin.
- Measure the amount of fluid you pour out. Write down how much fluid you empty from the drain and the date and time you collected it. Bring this record with you to your follow-up visits.
- Flush the fluid down the toilet. Wash your hands.
Follow up with your healthcare provider as directed:
Your drain will be monitored. Your healthcare provider may remove the drain during your visit. Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
© Copyright Merative 2023 Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.