When managing a Jackson-Pratt drain in a post-operative patient, how do you ensure effective drain function?

To ensure effective function of a Jackson-Pratt drain, it is crucial to establish and maintain negative pressure within the bulb, which promotes continuous drainage of fluid from the surgical site. Compressing the drain and then plugging the bulb achieves this negative pressure, allowing the suction mechanism to actively draw fluids out, which is essential for preventing fluid accumulation and promoting healing.

In contrast, leaving the bulb uncapped would prevent the suction from developing, impacting the drain's effectiveness. Maintaining the bulb in a dependent position without compression may not adequately create the suction necessary for optimal drainage. Flushing the drain regularly with saline solution is not a standard practice as it can introduce bacteria or disrupt the functional mechanism of the drain. Hence, the approach of compressing the drain and plugging the bulb is the most effective method to ensure its proper function.