G-tube care and management

We provide G-tube care and management services.Proper care and management of a G-tube are essential to prevent complications and ensure the patient’s well-being.

1. Understanding G-Tube Placement and Uses

Who Needs a G-Tube?

G-tubes are commonly used for individuals who:

  • Have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) due to neurological disorders (e.g., cerebral palsy, stroke, ALS).
  • Have congenital conditions affecting feeding.
  • Suffer from conditions causing severe malnutrition.
  • Undergo prolonged treatment that affects oral intake (e.g., cancer therapy).

Types of G-Tubes

  • PEG Tube (Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy): Inserted using an endoscope.
  • Balloon G-Tube: Has an internal water-filled balloon to hold it in place.
  • Non-Balloon G-Tube: Uses a retention disk instead of a balloon.
  • Low-Profile (Button) G-Tube: A discrete and secure option often used for children and long-term patients.

2. Daily G-Tube Care

Cleaning and Site Care

  • Wash hands before and after touching the G-tube.
  • Clean the skin around the G-tube with mild soap and warm water daily.
  • Pat the area dry to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Check for redness, swelling, leakage, or unusual discharge.

Flushing the G-Tube

  • Flush the tube with warm water before and after each feeding and medication administration.
  • Standard flushing volumes:
    • Infants: 3-5 mL of water
    • Children: 5-10 mL of water
    • Adults: 30-60 mL of water

Feeding via G-Tube

  • Use a syringe, gravity bag, or feeding pump based on the patient’s needs.
  • Ensure the feeding formula is at room temperature.
  • Position the patient at a 30-45° angle during feeding and for 30-60 minutes after to prevent aspiration.

Medication Administration

  • Use liquid medications when possible.
  • Crush solid medications into a fine powder and dissolve in warm water before administration.
  • Flush the tube with water before and after giving medications.

3. Managing G-Tube Complications

Clogging

Causes: Thick formula, medications, or inadequate flushing.
Prevention & Management:

  • Flush with warm water before and after each use.
  • Use a mixture of warm water and pancreatic enzymes (if approved by a healthcare provider) to break down clogs.

Leakage Around the Tube

Causes: Loose tube, stomach overfilling, or infection.
Management:

  • Check the G-tube size and placement.
  • Reduce feeding volume if necessary.
  • Apply a barrier cream to protect the skin.

Infection or Skin Irritation

Signs: Redness, swelling, pain, pus, or fever.
Prevention & Treatment:

  • Keep the site clean and dry.
  • Apply an antibiotic ointment if prescribed.
  • Contact a healthcare provider for signs of infection.

Dislodgement (Tube Falls Out)

  • Do not panic. Cover the stoma with gauze and seek medical assistance immediately.
  • If trained, insert a replacement tube promptly to prevent the stoma from closing.

Granulation Tissue Growth

  • Granulation tissue is overgrown healing tissue around the G-tube site.
  • Treatment may include silver nitrate application, steroid creams, or surgical removal.

4. Long-Term G-Tube Management

Tube Replacement

  • Balloon G-tubes typically need replacement every 3-6 months.
  • Non-balloon G-tubes may last 6 months to a year before needing replacement.

Dietary Considerations

  • A dietitian should monitor nutritional intake to ensure proper growth and weight maintenance.
  • Blenderized diets can be used instead of commercial formulas if approved by a doctor.

Monitoring and Follow-Up

  • Regular check-ups with a physician or nutritionist.
  • Monitoring for weight changes, hydration status, and gastrointestinal symptoms.

5. Emergency Situations and When to Call a Doctor

Seek medical help if:

  • The G-tube falls out and cannot be replaced.
  • There is severe pain, bleeding, or swelling at the insertion site.
  • The patient has vomiting, diarrhea, or dehydration.
  • The tube is persistently clogged and flushing does not help.