What should the nurse do first if a client reports drainage leaking around a Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain, and the bulb is empty?

When a client reports drainage leaking around a Jackson-Pratt (JP) drain and the bulb is empty, the first action should be to check the JP drain tubing for kinks. This is essential because kinks in the tubing can obstruct the flow of drainage, leading to a build-up of pressure and leakage at the drain site. By ensuring that the tubing is clear, the nurse can facilitate proper drainage and reduce the risk of complications such as infection or improper healing from inadequate drainage.

Ensuring that the JP drain is functioning correctly is a crucial first step in addressing the client’s concerns. Once the tubing is assessed and any issues are resolved, the nurse can then consider other actions, such as compressing the bulb or notifying the healthcare provider, if the problem persists. Prioritizing the assessment of the drain's patency allows for timely and appropriate interventions to maintain skin integrity and promote optimal wound healing.