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Warning-sign checks

Abscess - abdomen or pelvis: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Emergency assessment is appropriate for severe pain, fainting, confusion, trouble breathing, rapidly worsening weakness, or signs of shock such as cold skin and reduced alertness.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact the treating team promptly if the tube stops draining unexpectedly, falls out, leaks around the skin, or causes increasing redness or pain.

    Also report a returning fever, worsening abdominal symptoms, repeated vomiting, inability to take medicines, or new drainage from a wound.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has abdominal pain that is severe, constant, or getting worse
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Follow-up is important after drainage, surgery, or antibiotic treatment.

    The care team may review pain, fever, appetite, bowel and bladder function, the surgical wound, and laboratory results.

    Repeat imaging is not needed in every case, but it may be used when symptoms do not improve, return, or suggest that fluid remains.

    Routine follow-up may include deciding when to remove a catheter, completing antibiotic treatment, and addressing the underlying cause.

    For example, a person may need later care for Crohn’s disease, diverticular disease, or a surgical bowel leak.

    Some procedures are delayed until the infection and inflammation have settled.

The article also says

If a drainage catheter is in place, follow the specific instructions for emptying the collection bag, recording the amount and appearance of fluid, flushing the tube if instructed, and keeping the dressing clean.

Do not pull, clamp, or remove the catheter unless the care team directs you to do so.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Abscess - abdomen or pelvis. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.