Gastrostomy Care
Gastrostomy care is a type of medical care that involves the management and maintenance of a gastrostomy tube (G-tube), which is a surgically placed tube that allows for feeding and medication administration directly into the stomach. G-tubes are typical uses for patients who generally cannot eat or swallow due to medical conditions such as stroke, dementia, or cancer.
Gastrostomy care involves:
Monitoring and maintaining the G-tube site to prevent infection.
Checking for proper placement of the tube.
Administer medications and feeds through the line.
Caregivers and healthcare professionals may also need to manage any complications that may arise, such as clogged tubes, leakage, or dislodgement of the tube.
Proper gastrostomy care prevents complications such as infection, aspiration, or malnutrition. Caregivers and healthcare professionals will typically receive training on adequately caring for a G-tube, including cleaning and changing the dressing, flushing the tube, and administering feeds and medications.
Gastrostomy care is an essential aspect of medical care for patients who require enteral feeding and medication administration through a G-tube. Proper care and management of the G-tube can help improve patient outcomes and quality of life.