If you are a caregiver for someone who has a Gastrostomy Tube there are some basic duties and tasks that need to be performed. On this page, you can learn what to do if the G-Tube falls out in the first six weeks of placement from an experienced PASCO nurse.
Important:
- You will need to replace the G-Tube within the hour of it falling out because the stoma can close very quickly
- Before beginning the steps below, make plans to see your doctor or go to the emergency department to have it replaced
Maintain Standard Precaution for G-Tube Related Tasks
Before beginning any G-Tube related tasks, make sure to do at least one of the following:
- Wear gloves
- Wash hands for at least 20 seconds
- Use hand sanitizer and rub until dry
Step 1 - Gather Supplies
- Replacement MIC-KEY
- Lubricant
- Paper Tape
Step 2 - Place Temporary MIC-KEY
- Take a new MIC-KEY button
- Put lubricant on the end so that it will slide through (can use generous amount)
- Place the G-Tube back in the stoma
- DO NOT inflate the balloon at the end
- Tape over the G-Tube to keep it in place
- Get to the hospital within an hour
Step 3 - If You Have No Replacement MIC-KEY
- Can also use a foley catheter of the same size
- Take the catheter and apply lubricant
- Insert it about two inches into the stoma
- Tape generously around the end so that it stays in place
- Do not inflate the balloon
