Jackson Pratt (JP) Drain Care
Instructions for caring at home
How Do I Care for the JP Drain at Home?
Some patients may go home with a drain, also known as a Jackson Pratt (JP) drain. Pin your JP drain to your clothing by using a safety pin through the plastic loop on the top of the bulb. If the drain is not attached to your clothing, it may pull out from under your skin. Also, a drain usually feels more comfortable when it is anchored with the safety pin to your clothes. To care for the JP drain at home, you will have to empty the drain.
How to Empty the Drain
1. Wash your hands with soap and water.
2. Hold the drain securely with one hand.
3. Remove the drainage plug (cap) from the emptying port.
4. Carefully turn the bulb upside down over the measuring cup and gently squeeze all the drainage into the measuring cup.
5. Squeeze the middle of the bulb.
6. While still squeezing the bulb, replace the cap. This step is important to keep the drain working. Secure the drain to your clothes again.
7. Measure how much fluid you removed from the bulb.
8. Write down the amount and color of the fluid you removed from the bulb. (If you have more than one drain, keep a separate record for each one).
9. Empty the fluid into the toilet and flush.
10. Rinse the measuring cup and wash your hands with soap and water.
11. You should empty the drain at least two times each day, in the morning and at bedtime.