Surgical patients are increasingly undergoing operative procedures that require complex post-operative care followed by prolonged rehabilitation in the community, and few leave surgery without a wound, tube, line or drain. The care of these surgical adjuncts is undertaken either in hospital by ward staff or away from the hospital in the community, where GPs and practice nurses are expected to take over the day-to-day management of this care. The ABC of Tubes, Drains, Lines and Frames is a practical guide that provides a clear account of the key issues involved in the assessment and management of surgical wounds, tubes, drains, lines and stomas – from the operating theatre to the Critical Care unit and from the ward into the community. It highlights common pitfalls and includes ‘trouble shooting’ sections that provide an understanding of the issues at all stages of post-operative care. This new ABC is an invaluable resource for all GPs, practice nurses, surgical nurses, junior doctors, and community paramedics.
