What is an indication of purulent drainage?

Purulent drainage is characterized by the presence of thick fluid that often has a yellow or green color and typically emits a foul odor. This type of drainage is a sign of infection, as it is primarily composed of pus, which contains dead white blood cells, bacteria, and tissue debris. The color and smell of purulent drainage can vary somewhat depending on the specific infections or conditions present, but the combination of thick consistency and foul odor is a strong clinical indicator of the presence of infection.

In contrast, bright red drainage usually indicates fresh bleeding, while clear liquid with no odor suggests a serous or transudate fluid that is not indicative of infection. Pale red with blood particles often points to a mixture of blood with other fluids but does not imply the presence of pus or infection. Understanding these distinctions is crucial in clinical assessments and patient care management.