How to Care for a G-Tube

A G-tube or gastric tube is a tube surgically inserted through the stomach wall into the stomach. Food and medication is infused through the tube which is left implanted for a period of time. People have G-tubes because they cannot eat normally through the mouth, do not eat adequately or need the G-tube for other medical reasons. Here are some tips for caring for a G-tube.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Keep the area where the tube enters the skin clean and free from infection. A dressing is worn to protect the area and must be changed daily.
2. Wash hands well and remove the old dressing.
3. Clean the area around the tube gently with soap and warm water. Remove drainage and crusting. Gently clean around the sutures and dry the skin thoroughly. It's important to keep the skin clean and dry.
4. Administer medication around the tube as ordered by physician.
5. Apply a clean dressing. Usually it is a special G-tube dressing with a slit in it to go around the tube. Secure dressing with tape as instructed by the doctor or nurse.
6. Flush the G-tube to keep it open so the fluid will flow properly. This procedure is something that must be taught by a nurse or physician.
7. Protect the G-tube so it is not accidentally pulled out at any time.

Tips & Warnings

• If the G-tube comes out, cover it with a clean dressing and tape. Call the doctor or nurse right away because the G-tube needs to be reinserted as soon as possible.
• Always call your doctor or nurse if you have any questions or problems.