Printable patient guide
Aftercare following abscess drainage
Use this guide alongside the instructions given at your appointment. Your individual dressing, medicine and follow-up instructions take priority.
Dressings and normal drainage
A drained abscess is usually left open to heal from the base. Some fluid or blood-stained discharge on the dressing can be expected at first; an open wound alone is not a complication. Wash your hands and change a wet or dirty dressing as instructed.
Packing and review
If the cavity contains packing or a wick, confirm when and where it will be removed or replaced. Do not leave the plan unclear or insert material yourself.
Recovery
Follow the agreed washing, activity and medicine instructions. Avoid rubbing or squeezing the wound. Arrange the agreed dressing care or review; healing may need reassessment.
When to contact the clinic
Contact the treating unit on the same day if redness spreads, pain or swelling increases rather than settling, discharge becomes clearly more purulent or foul-smelling, or you develop fever or feel unwell. If timely assessment is unavailable or you are unsure where to go, call 116117. For uncontrolled major bleeding or another life-threatening situation, call 112.
Your agreed plan
Write the individual instructions on this printout at your appointment. Agree any review and who arranges it before leaving.
Date and treated area:
First dressing change / packing removal: when and where:
Washing, activity and medication instructions:
Review: when, where and who books it: