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Enteral Feeding Tube Cleaning

Enteral feeding tubes provide an alternative feeding method for patients suffering oral or esophageal problems. Utilizing a surgically inserted tube, liquefied food is introduced directly into the stomach or small intestine. Maintain strict standards of cleanliness to avoid the introduction of foreign matter, especially infectious agents. Irritation around the site will be reduced when the area is kept clean and dry.

  1. Types of Enteral Feeding Tubes

    • Enteral feeding tubes come in a variety of types. The physical tube may be elongated and extend outside of the body for several inches, or short and seat flush to the skin surface.

      When the tube passes through the abdomen and into the stomach wall, it is considered a percutaneous endoscopic gastric tube or PEG tube.

      With a percutaneous endoscopic jejunostomy, the tube is inserted into the jejunum, a part of the small intestine.

    Preparations for Feeding

    • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before beginning preparations for the feeding and at any time contamination may have been encountered.

      Prepare the formula as directed, taking care to properly dilute any concentrated products with sterile water to facilitate flow through the enteral tube.

      Clean the exterior of the tube and the area around the tube with soap and water.

      Flush the tube with 20 to 60 cc of sterile water before feeding begins.

    During Feeding

    • Use care in handling everything involved with the feeding: gravity feed bags, extension tubes, syringes, water supply and the liquid foodstuff. Clean up any leakage or spillage promptly and wash hands immediately. Monitor the flow of foodstuff through the tube to minimize buildup.

    After Feeding

    • Flush the tube with 20 to 60 cc of sterile water. This pushes the last of the feeding clear of the tube. Clean the exterior of the tube and area around the tube and dry thoroughly.

    Blockages

    • Check the recommendations of the tube's manufacturer for de-clogging products.
      Create a solution of pancreatic enzyme, 1/2 tsp. sodium bicarbonate and 20 milliliters of sterile water. Flush the enteral feeding tube with the solution and allow it to remain for 30 minutes. Flush with an additional 50 milliliters sterile water, according to the Clinical Resource Efficiency Support Team. Pancreatic enzyme requires a physician's order.

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