Which type of wound drainage is sanguineous?

• A. Serous
• B. Purulent
• C. Sanguineous
• D. Serosanguineous

Answer: (C)

Wound drainage types are described by color and content. Sanguineous drainage is bloody drainage, ranging from bright red to dark red, indicating the presence of fresh blood from damaged vessels. This is different from serous drainage, which is clear, watery fluid; serosanguineous drainage, which is a light red-pink mix of serum and blood; and purulent drainage, which is thick, opaque pus. So this option describes blood-containing drainage, making it the correct choice. In practice, small amounts of sanguineous drainage can be normal early after injury or surgery, but persistent or heavy bleeding should be assessed.