A wound drainage that is clear, watery, and pale yellow is described as which type?

A wound drainage that is clear, watery, and pale yellow is described as which type?

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

Answer: (A)

Wound drainage types are described by appearance and content. Serous exudate is a clear, watery fluid that is pale yellow due to serum components. It often appears in the early inflammatory phase and during healing, indicating minimal tissue damage and a normal healing process. The description—clear, watery, pale yellow—fits serous exudate best. In contrast, bloody drainage is sanguineous, thick pus is purulent, and a pinkish mix of serum and blood is serosanguineous.

Wound drainage types are described by appearance and content. Serous exudate is a clear, watery fluid that is pale yellow due to serum components. It often appears in the early inflammatory phase and during healing, indicating minimal tissue damage and a normal healing process. The description—clear, watery, pale yellow—fits serous exudate best. In contrast, bloody drainage is sanguineous, thick pus is purulent, and a pinkish mix of serum and blood is serosanguineous.