Which statement best describes a serosanguinous discharge seen around a newly created colostomy?

• A. Purulent drainage
• B. Clear serous drainage
• C. Mucus discharge
• D. Serosanguinous drainage

Answer: (D)

Serosanguinous drainage around a newly created colostomy is normal in the early healing phase. It is a mix of serum and blood, giving a light pink to pale red color and a thin, watery consistency. This reflects small amounts of blood mixed with serous fluid as tissue healing begins. It differs from purulent drainage, which is thick, cloudy or colored yellow/green and often foul-smelling, signaling possible infection. Clear serous drainage would be watery and pale-yellow without blood, which is less likely to reflect the initial blood-tinged oozing seen after surgery. Mucus discharge can occur from bowel mucosa, but the description here specifically points to serosanguinous drainage being the typical early post‑op finding. If drainage becomes purulent, markedly increases, or changes color or odor, that would warrant assessment.