Tube removal advice

Before your tube is removed

The decision to remove for feeding tube will need to be discussed with your consultant, GP and dietician. Once this has been confirmed we will then either contact your community nutrition nurse to arrange removal or make an appointment for you to attend our clinic.

Preparation for your tube removal

We will instruct you not to eat or drink or use the PEG tube for two (2) hours before your appointment time. All essential medication can be taken with sips of water.

What happens now my tube has been removed?

The stoma should begin to close within 30 minutes but it can take several weeks for the site to heal fully. During this time it is normal to experience some leakage from the site, so a dressing will be applied.

Can I eat and drink immediately after your tube removal?

Do not eat or drink for two hours after your tube is removed as this will help reduce the amount of leakage in the initial period. After this time you can start eating or drinking.

How often should I change the dressing?

Change the dressing as required (normally once per day or if it becomes soaked). You will be provided with spare dressings and can stop wearing one once it stops leaking and the skin has healed over.

Can I swim or have a bath?

Showering during this time is allowed: please ensure the site is cleaned carefully (allow soap and water to wash over it, do not rub it) and pat dry before putting on a new dressing.

Avoid bathing / swimming until the wound closes completely. If you wish to re-start swimming, a waterproof dressing can be used during this period.

Monitor the site for things such as:

• increase in leakage or bleeding
• pain
• redness
• skin breakdown
• swelling
• temperature

If you experience any of the above, or the site continues to leak after five days, please contact the nutrition nurse specialists or GP, to arrange review.

The nutrition nurse specialists can be contacted on 01223 216037. Monday to Friday 08:00 – 16:00. Out of Hours, weekends and bank holidays, please call 111 for advice.

Collection of equipment

Contact your feeding company to update them that your tube has been removed and that you no longer require deliveries or input from your company nurse.

• Nutricia Homeward: 03457 623 632
• Fresenius: 0808 100 1990
• Abbott: 0800 018 3799