This topic is about dealing with the challenges of incision leaking, wounds, and anxiety three weeks after undergoing an emergency Hartmann’s procedure. The person has a temporary stoma, two large former-drain sites, and a midline incision. After a routine pouch change, a scab on the incision opened, releasing a large amount of fluid and causing a rise in temperature, which led to panic and flashbacks of the ICU. The person is looking for reassurance without worrying their family.

Here are some helpful pieces of advice and insights:

1. It is important to have the incision checked by a doctor, not just wound-care staff. Some people have experienced hidden pockets of pus or a burst section that needed medical or antibiotic treatment. An early review can help rule out infection and provide peace of mind.

2. Sometimes, doctors prescribe a short course of antibiotics when there is an increase in wound fluid or signs of infection, such as a raised temperature.

3. It is normal for fluid seepage to start when activity increases, and this can last for 1–2 weeks or more. Recovery can be uneven, with both good and bad days.

4. Wound-vac therapy, which involves a negative-pressure dressing, has helped some people heal deep or persistent openings when standard dressings were not enough.

5. For a small opening, one person shared a home care technique:
- Purchase an antibacterial wound wash, which is available over-the-counter or online.
- Cleanse the cavity while lying down, let it sit briefly, and then blot the excess.
- Pack the hole with silver alginate dressing, which turns to gel and provides antibacterial action.
- Cover with gauze and tape, and repeat daily until the wound closes, which took about 4 weeks in their case.

6. Panic and anxiety after ICU and emergency surgery are common. It is important to take recovery one day at a time, use forums for support, and remember that both physical and mental healing improve with time. Many people report significant improvement by weeks 7–11.