Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

If the gastrostomy tube falls out DO NOT panic, the gastrostomy site will not close over immediately. If you have been taught to insert a G-tube, then reinsert a new one. If you have not been shown or have a Monarch® gastrostomy tube, place a clean dressing over the site to stop any leakage of fluid from the stomach. Go to Emergency Department within 2-4hours as early replacement is essential.

A note of advice

Dungaree’s, babygro’s, popper vests, and swimming costumes are all helpful in keeping little fingers away from the tube.

If the gastrostomy tube blocks clean the feeding port with water and cotton tipped applicator, then try flushing the gastrostomy tube again. If this doesn’t work attempt to flush the gastrostomy tube with warm water and leave for 30 minutes. DO NOT use excessive pressure when flushing. If this method fails then seek advice (please refer to Contact Points for contact details).

A note of advice

Gastrostomy tubes do occasionally block. This is often caused by medicines or feed accumulating in the tube. To help prevent this ALWAYS FLUSH the tube before and after each feed/ medication with cooled boiled water.

This can be relieved by attaching the barrel of a 60ml enteral syringe to the feeding port, open the clamp and this will release air/food from the stomach.

This is unusual. If this problem occurs in the first 5 days after the tube is inserted, seek advice (please refer to Contact Points for contact details).

To prevent this from happening always clean and dry the gastrostomy site daily. If the skin is not healing seek advice (Contact Points). Do not put any creams or dressings around the site unless advised to do so.

This can be the result of the body trying to close the gastrostomy site, or from the gastrostomy tube moving in and out too much. The skin will look slightly red and bumpy. Seek advice if you notice this (please refer to Contact Points for contact details). Cream may be prescribed, or the size of the gastrostomy tube may be checked.

If you are unable to extract the water from the balloon with the syringe, ensure the balloon port is clear. Reinsert the syringe into the balloon port, push and twist. If this doesn’t work, seek advice (please refer to Contact Points for contact details).

We recommend no swimming or hydrotherapy sessions for 6 weeks following placement of gastrostomy. After 6 weeks it is fine to go swimming or attend hydrotherapy sessions and there is no need for the gastrostomy to be covered while in the swimming pool.

Giving sets/containers and bags used on several occasions over a 24-hour period are required to be flushed with water through the pump. Once flushed replace cap on the end of the giving set. The giving set/ container/bag is to be discarded after 24 hours use.

The syringes, when used in the community, are reusable. After each use syringes should be cleaned with liquid detergent, rinsed, air dried and stored in a clean, dry container. For children under 6 months of age the items can be steam sterilized. Each syringe can be used for 7 days.