Yikes I just read about not rinsing out drain bulb well I did once . I will watch carefully and not do it again

Doris- did they give you a number for the off-hours nurse? Our center had one we could call when questions came up where we were concerned as to whether something needed to be addressed quickly. If you call that number, you may get the answers without waiting unnecessarily for hours in the ER waiting room. I had to make a trip during chemo (after talking with the off-hours nurse) and still waited 4 hours to be seen.

The AI response did not mention being aware of redness, warmth, etc. at the drain site as a possible sign of infection, and always take your temp as well.

Check in when you get a chance! Hugs!

Doing good. Heard back from my doctor and I can milk but not required. So we might tonight.

Doris, just checking back in on you! How are you doing this morning? Hugs!

If you are not already stripping your drain lines then follow the instructions in the above AI response. Sometimes when you empty the drainage bulbs there will be little blood clots or other gunk that doesn't come out. You DO NOT want to rinse the drainage bulbs out as it could put you at risk of infection. It's also normal for the drains to have different amounts of fluid and for the fluid to look different between the two drains because they are draining fluid from different parts of your chest area. Like the AI response says, if the stuff coming out of your drain bulbs smells bad, is thick, white, or green then contact your surgeon. Since it's the weekend, if you are concerned and can't reach your surgeon then go to the ER for assistance. Good luck ❤️