What if I don’t change the bile drainage bag for two days and it smells?

The bile drainage bag is usually changed once every 2 to 3 days, and odor requires a case-by-case approach for the next step in treatment. Generally, it is considered to be caused by biliary infection and infection of the contact area between the drainage tube and the skin. 1. Biliary infection: If a biliary infection occurs, the bile will have an odor and the nature of the bile will change. This should be reported to the clinician, who will determine the shape of the bile and perform a bile culture to adjust antibiotic use. If necessary, a cholangiogram should also be performed to observe the presence of biliary obstruction. 2. Infection at the site of contact between the drain and the skin: If the site is infected, it can lead to a localized odor that can be mistaken for a bile odor. This should be reported to the doctor, especially with a local examination, definitive disinfection and dressing change, and antibiotic change if necessary. If there is an odor from the bile drainage, you need to report to your physician for examination and the next step in the treatment to avoid delays.