What is the rationale for milking the tubing of a chest tube drainage system?
A)To assess for proper seal and prevent air from entering the chest.
B)To remove excess clots or debris.
C)To prevent bleeding or increased fluid output into the chamber.
D)Milking the tubing is not an appropriate intervention.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The rationale for milking the tubing of the chest tube drainage system is to remove excess clots or debris. At times, clots may collect in the tubing, which can impede drainage flow. This may be noted by observing decreased amounts of drainage coming from the chest tube or by visually noting an occlusion. Milking the chest tube is done very gently and according to hospital policy.

What Is the Rationale for Milking the Tubing of a Chest