elbow drainage

I recently had a staff infection taken out of my arm surgically.  Now it has come open along the scar line and it is constantly draining.  Should I leave it alone or go and have it sutured up?

[Bridget A. Hewitt, RN]

HI and thanks for using the forum.

You need to go back to your doctor.  IF the wound is draining that much, it may still be infected.  You wouldn't want it to be sutured back up,  it drains to get all the infection out and suturing it would just keep all that fluid inside.  In the meantime, keep the area clean and put a dressing/bandage on to protect your clothing, etc.  If you are already on (or still on) an antibiotic make sure that you keep taking it as prescribed while you are waiting to see your doctor.  Good luck.

Bridget