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Services and Programs
Pediatric Gastroenterology
Tests and Procedures
Home Care Instructions
After Placement of a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy
(PEG) or G-tube
Skin Care
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Clean the skin around the G-tube two times a day for
the first two weeks following these steps:
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Gather the following equipment:
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Wash your hands with soap and water
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Explain the procedure to your child
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Wash the skin around the tube with cotton swabs or
clean gauze pads. Dip the cotton swab or gauze
pad in the saline
or sterile
water
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Dry the area around the tube with
a clean gauze pad or towel
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Do not apply a bandage to the
site
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Turn the external bolster on the G-tube at least
a ¼ turn daily. The tube should turn freely. Check to
make sure that the external bolster is not tight. There should
be no pressure marks on the skin. Call your child’s doctor
or nurse if you need help loosening the external bolster.
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Check your child’s G-tube site once a day. It is normal
for the area around the site to be slightly pink with some
crusty discharge.
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During a follow up visit, the doctor or nurse will check the
G-tube site to see if it is well healed. Then you can wash
the site daily with mild soap and water.
Giving Feedings and Medications
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We will design a feeding plan specifically for
your child. You will find there are many ways to feed your
child with a G-tube.
We will teach you the best method for your child.
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Use liquid medications whenever possible. If you must give pills,
crush them between two spoons and mix them in a teaspoon
of warm water. Do not crush coated or time-released pills.
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Do not mix medications together.
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Do not mix medications in formula unless instructed to do so
by your health care provider.
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Always flush the G-tube with water before and after each feeding
and medication. We will tell you the proper amount of
water to use.
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Always clamp the G-tube between feedings to prevent the
stomach contents from leaking.
Activity
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Your child may take a bath or shower and swim in
a chlorinated swimming pool.
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Your child may go back to his or her regular activities. If you
child plays sports, protect the G-tube from being
pulled out. Ask your nurse or doctor for ideas on how to protect the G-tube
during play.
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Young children are very curious about their G-tube and may pull
on it. Dress your child in snug clothing or one-piece
underwear to prevent pulling.
Follow Up
Bring your child for a follow up visit in Pediatric GI two weeks
after discharge. Call the Pediatric GI office
at 585-275-2647 to make an appointment.
When to Call the Pediatric GI Service
Call your child’s doctor or nurse at 585-275-2647 if your
child has any of the following:
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Fever
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Fluid leaking, tissue build-up, or continuous bleeding around
the tube
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Irritability or trouble sleeping
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Redness, rash, or swelling around the G-tube site
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Unusual smell or pus around the tube
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Vomiting, diarrhea, or stomach cramps
If the G-tube falls out—call immediately.
The information provided is general information only and not
to be used as medical advice. Please consult with your child's
doctor for specific instructions regarding your child's illness.
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