Care of your childs Gastrostomy Tube After initial placement

 

Your child’s gastrostomy feeding tube has been replaced with a skin-level device.  During this first tube change there is a small risk that the stomach may separate from the abdominal wall.  After the tube was changed an x-ray was done to check placement.  We want you to be aware of symptoms that may occur if there is a problem with the tube.  Symptoms include if your child:

• Cannot tolerate his feedings.
• Suddenly complains of abdominal pain or appears to be in pain.  Especially around the time of a feeding.
• Abdomen becomes larger or hard.
• A fever of 102F or higher.

 

If you notice any of these symptoms in the first 12 hours after the tube was changed, please call our office.

• From 8:00am-4:00pm call 608-263-6420. 
• After 4:00pm call our Pediatric Gastroenterology doctor on call at 608-262-2122. 

 

Daily Care of the Skin Level G-Tube

• Look for redness, swelling, pain, or drainage at the site.
• Clean the site daily (more often if needed) with mild soap and water.  Do not use hydrogen peroxide, ointments, medicine, or any other solutions on the site unless your Pediatric Gastroenterology doctor has told you to do so. 
• Flush the skin level g-tube after each use with about 10ml of water.
• Check the water in the balloon about twice a month.  If the volume is less than 5ml, add enough water to equal a volume of 5ml.

 

If the Skin Level G-Tube Comes Out

A tube that comes out should be replaced as soon as possible.  The tract can start to close quickly.  If you do not have a new tube readily available, the old tube can be reinserted and taped in place until you have a new tube.  If you are unable to get the tube back in, call us or go to your local emergency room.

 

When to Call our Clinic

Call the Pediatric Gastroenterology Clinic at (608) 263-6420 if the following occurs:

• The site looks infected (it is red, swollen, painful, or your child has a fever).
• The tube comes out and you are unable to put a new one back in.
• Your child cannot tolerate her tube feedings.
• If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s skin level device or feedings.

 

The Spanish version of this Health Facts for You is #6521.

 

The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.

Last Updated: 05/10/2010

Copyright © 05/10/2010 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. UWH #5962

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