Nursing patients with open peritoneal drainage

ABSTRACT:

Open peritoneal drainage is not a common procedure, but may be used in severe cases of septic peritonitis as an alternative to closing the abdomen and placing active suction drains. The veterinary nurse's role becomes important as these patients require intensive monitoring and nursing. This article aims to explain the procedure, and the role of the nurse to make sure the patient has the best outcome possible.

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Notes on contributors

Alison Young

Alison Young RVN DipAVN(Surg)

Alison Young worked in a small animal practice in Hertfordshire where she qualified as a veterinary nurse. In 2001, she joined the Queen Mother Hospital at the RVC as a surgery nurse. In 2005, she took the Diploma in Advanced Veterinary Nursing (Surgical) and became senior, then head, theatre nurse.