What should a nurse expect when a Jackson-Pratt drain is functioning properly?

When a Jackson-Pratt drain is functioning properly, the nurse should expect a negative pressure in the reservoir. The Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain is designed to remove fluid that accumulates at a surgical site by using a suction mechanism created by compressing the reservoir. When the reservoir is compressed and then released, it creates negative pressure, which helps draw fluid from the surrounding tissue into the drain.

Maintaining negative pressure is essential for the drain's function, as it promotes effective drainage and allows for a lower risk of infection and other complications. A properly functioning drain will facilitate fluid removal without causing continuous excessive bleeding or inconsistent drainage patterns. This ensures that the surgical site can heal effectively without fluid accumulation impeding the healing process.

While minimal fluid accumulation may occur depending on the surgical site, it doesn't characterize proper function in the same way negative pressure does. Constant flow of blood would indicate a potential complication, and pain at the site may suggest issues such as infection or tissue irritation, rather than proper drainage function. Therefore, negative pressure in the reservoir is a key indicator of a Jackson-Pratt drain working as intended.