Stannard et al used a grading system to describe the amount of blood and drainage from a treated wound. This can help to standardize the monitoring of a healing wound. The authors are from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
Drainage from the Wound (as Seen on Dressing)
Descriptor
Grade
none
none
1
1 to 3 small drops measuring < 0.4 cm in diameter
scant
2
1 or 2 drops that are "quarter size"
minimal
3
drops larger than a quarter, not extending the full length of the incision
mild
4
drainage along the entire length of the incision
moderate
5
soaks the dressing within 24 hours
marked
6
where:
• I would imagine that there could be a Grade 7, with the dressing soaked in under 12 hours.
• A quarter measures about 2.4 cm in diameter.
• To have the number and size of drops described the length of the incision should be at least 8-10 cm in length.
• On page 1302 the authors describe moderate drainage as a spot >= 1 cm in diameter on the dressing that does not decrease with passing time (lasts for several shifts).
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