Feeding Tubes: Gastrostomy, Jejunostomy, and Gastrojejunostomy

Overview

• Types of feeding tubes: Gastrostomy (G-tube), Jejunostomy tube, and Gastrojejunostomy (GJ tube).
• Care and maintenance are similar for all types.

Types of Feeding Tubes

• Gastrostomy Tube (G-tube):

  • Placed into the stomach.
  • Used primarily for feeding.

• Jejunostomy Tube:

  • Placed into the jejunum (small intestine).
  • Used for feeding.

• Gastrojejunostomy Tube (GJ tube):

  • Placed in the stomach with an extension into the jejunum.
  • Two ports: gastrostomy port for medication and jejunostomy port for feeding.

Placement and Structure

• Inserted with a balloon inflated inside the body to secure it, and a bumper outside against the skin.
• White port is used for inflating the balloon (do not insert anything here).

Initial Post-Procedure Care

• Gauze dressing covers insertion site for 24 hours.
• No eating/drinking for 12 hours post-procedure.
• Follow doctor's orders for medication and initial feedings.

Daily Care and Maintenance

• Cleaning the Tube and Insertion Site:

  • Remove dressing after 24 hours and clean with mild soap and water.
  • Remove drainage or dried fluids with a cotton swab.

• Monitoring for Infections:

  • Look for signs of infection: odor, redness, swelling.
  • Some redness and soreness are normal for the initial days.

• Securing the Tube:

  • Keep tube in an upright position to prevent tension and leakage.

• Flushing the Tube:

  • Flush daily with water, and both before and after using for feeding or medication.

Medication via Feeding Tube

• Prefer liquid medications.
• Consult with a doctor before crushing pills.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Leakage/Drainage:

  • Adjust body position and check bumper placement.

• Blocked Tubes:

  • Flush with warm water only.

• Excessive Gas/Bloating:

  • Allow air to escape by uncapping the tube briefly.

• Tube Breaks or Cap Issues:

  • Use emergency cap if necessary and contact doctor for replacement.

When to Call Doctor

• Fever, severe pain, unusual drainage, or vomiting.
• Tube leakage, falls out, or becomes unusable.

FAQs

• Blended Foods:

  • Consult with a dietitian.

• Swimming:

  • Wait four weeks and consult doctor first. Avoid lakes, ponds, rivers.

• Tube Duration:

  • Varies based on individual treatment plans.