Which color of wound exudate is considered abnormal?

• A. Red
• B. Yellow
• C. Clear
• D. Green

Answer: (D)

In wound care, the color of drainage helps signal whether an infection might be present. Healthy wounds typically show clear or pale yellow serous drainage, or a pinkish serosanguinous fluid, and the tissue may look granulated rather than necrotic. Green drainage stands out as abnormal because it often points to infection, frequently linked to bacteria like Pseudomonas that can produce a blue‑green pigment and pus. You might also notice other infection clues such as foul odor, increased redness, warmth, swelling, or rising pain.

If green drainage is observed, it’s important to assess the wound for signs of infection, document the color change, and coordinate with a clinician for further evaluation—this may include wound culture, cleaning, possible debridement, and antibiotic therapy as prescribed. While not every green drainage patient is infected, it is a red flag that prompts closer examination and appropriate treatment.