After abdominal surgery, what should a nurse do concerning a Penrose drain?

The correct response emphasizes the need for proper care and management of a Penrose drain following abdominal surgery. A Penrose drain is a flexible rubber tube used to facilitate the drainage of fluids from a wound, and it is typically held in place with a sterile safety pin to avoid dislodgement.

When the surgeon advances the drain, the sterile safety pin must be repositioned accordingly to ensure that the drain remains secure and effective in its function. This practice helps prevent any complications that may arise, such as the drain becoming dislodged or causing additional trauma to the tissue. Proper handling of the drain and regular adjustments are essential to maintain an effective drainage system and promote healing.

The other options suggest actions that don’t align with standard nursing practices related to Penrose drains. Removing the drain at set intervals is not advised as it requires a careful assessment and decision made by the healthcare provider. Regular dressing changes are necessary but should be tailored to the surgical site’s condition rather than performed daily without assessment. Documentation of patient complaints is important for overall patient care but does not directly relate to the critical management of a Penrose drain following surgical procedures.