What is purulent drainage?

Purulent drainage is characterized as thick fluid that typically appears green, yellow, or brown. This type of drainage results from a response to infection where white blood cells, bacteria, and dead tissue accumulate. The presence of pus is indicative of an ongoing inflammatory process and usually signifies that the wound is infected.

Clear fluid, or serous drainage, differs from purulent drainage as it is typically thin and watery, often resembling serum without the presence of bacteria. The definition of serous exudate also does not align since it specifically contains clear, sterile fluid rather than the thick, opaque nature of purulent fluid. Finally, fluid that solely contains dead cells does not adequately describe purulent drainage, which is a combination of live and dead cells as well as other components from the immune response, making it distinct from pure necrotic tissue. Recognizing the characteristics of purulent drainage is crucial for effective wound management and infection control.