Not Surgical Patients

It’s a well-meaning gesture and the first thing that comes to mind: sending something on a stem to brighten a bedside table. But the blooms will wilt, and the challenges of recovery can last for weeks. There’s a better way to help someone get well soon.

dead roses

The Patient Journey

When a friend or family member receives a difficult diagnosis, in many cases that means surgery. And in nearly one million cases annually in the U.S., the patient will receive a Jackson Pratt (JP) post-surgical drain.

The JP is a two-part device, with a plastic suction bulb about the size of a large lemon joined with a drain tube that extends from the surgical site. The two parts together use suction to remove unnecessary fluids from the area, with the fluids collecting in the bulb. It’s not uncommon for two or more drains to be installed during surgical procedures.

If you’ve never heard about or seen patients with JP drains, that’s not surprising. Because the job of the bulbs is to accumulate gross material, like blood clots and mucus-type fluid, patients don’t talk about it. The bulbs are so awful looking, most people choose to stay home and keep the drains out of sight for the two to three weeks they must wear them.

It’s not just about how they look. The drains are uncomfortable at best, and painful at worst, as they hang from the body without much support.

Here’s the Kicker…

In 2017, nearly 50 years after the invention of JP drains, nurses still distribute safety pins for patients to pin the bulbs to their clothing. It’s a clumsy and impractical solution to managing the drains, but nurses supply them because hasn’t been a better alternative.

KILI Medical Drain Carrier

And now there is. The KILI Carrier is a gender-neutral, one-size-fits-all mesh apron that safely holds even heavy JP drains during the recovery period. Drain bulbs are zippered into the apron pocket and can be discreetly and securely worn under shirts and tops. Not only is this more comfortable for the patient, it helps prevent tearing at the wound site, giving it the chance to heal faster.

Instead of fading flowers, send your loved one some relief. The KILI Carrier is a simple, inexpensive, lasting solution to a real problem, and a whole lot smarter than a safety pin. Only $14.99 each, shipping included. MedicalDrainCarrier.com.