Why are milking or stripping chest tubes generally discouraged?

• A. These maneuvers can generate high intrathoracic pressures and tissue injury; rely on the drainage system's function rather than manual manipulation.
• B. They improve drainage by massaging the area.
• C. They shorten the life of the drain.
• D. They have no effect on drainage.

Answer: (C)

The key idea here is that chest tubes are meant to drain passively through the closed system, not to be forced along their length. Milking or stripping the tube applies direct manual pressure and pulling along the tube, which can stress the drain itself and its connections. This mechanical stress can wear or damage the tube, loosen connectors, cause kinks, or create microtears, all of which can shorten the drain’s useful life or lead to premature failure. Because of these risks, it’s safer to rely on the drainage system’s function (and suction or gravity) and address any obstruction or issues by checking for kinks, repositioning, or replacing the system rather than manually manipulating the tube.