A patient has an abdominal wound with a Hemovac drain in place. Which technique should the nurse implement to maintain optimal suction in the drain?
a. Replace the Hemovac drain when full.
b. Attach the tubing to the patient's gown.
c. Compress the Hemovac on a flat surface after emptying.
d. Apply high continual suction to the He-movac plug.
C
To maintain the gentle suction designed into the Hemovac drainage system, the nurse empties the drainage into a measuring cup; compresses the Hemovac on a firm, flat surface; and reinserts the plug into its opening on the Hemovac. The Hemovac is an integral unit, and the surgeon places the drain in surgery. After surgery the unit is removable but not replaceable. The Hemovac container is attached to the patient's gown for activity. If the nurse attaches the tubing to the gown, the weight of the Hemovac creates excessive tension on the tubing and increases the risk of accidental removal. Suction is never applied to a Hemovac without a specific order for the amount and type of suction.
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Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).