Observation of which drainage at the tube exit site signals infection in a patient with a newly placed gastrostomy or jejunostomy tube?

• A. Serosanguineous drainage
• B. Foul-smelling drainage
• C. Coffee-ground drainage
• D. Vile-colored drainage

Answer: (B)

Infection at a gastrostomy or jejunostomy tube exit site is most indicated by drainage that has a foul odor. While some clear or pink-tinged drainage can be normal in the early healing phase, foul-smelling drainage suggests bacterial colonization and infection of the wound or tract. Other descriptions like serosanguineous drainage are common early and reflect healing rather than infection; coffee-ground drainage points to old blood rather than infection; and vague “vile-colored” drainage isn’t a standard sign of infection. So, foul-smelling drainage at the exit site best signals an infection.