Tube Feeding: Skin And Mouth Care
Welcome to our health education library. The information shared below is provided to you as an educational and informational source only and is not intended to replace a medical examination or consultation, or medical advice given to you by a physician or medical professional.
You need to keep the skin around the feeding tube dry and clean. This helps prevent soreness and infection. The mouth also needs to be cleansed, even though food isn't taken through it.
Cleaning the Skin
Gently wash the skin around the feeding tube each day. Follow these steps:
Wash your hands. Wet a soft cloth or gauze with warm, soapy water.
Gently wipe the skin around the feeding tube. Also wipe the bolster and the base of the feeding tube.
Rinse well with clear, warm water.
Pat dry with a soft cloth.
Checking Under the Bolster
When you wash the skin, clean and check under the bolster. Follow these steps:
Gently lift the bolster just enough to get a cotton swab under it. Be careful not to pull on the feeding tube.
Check for redness, swelling, bleeding, or leakage around the opening.
Dip a cotton swab in warm water and gently clean under the bolster. Pat the skin dry.
Apply a protective skin barrier or antibacterial ointment if your health care provider tells you to.
Gently push the bolster back against the skin.
Give the feeding tube a gentle 1/4 turn. This helps keep the bumper from sticking to the inside of the stomach.
Wash your hands.
Caring for the Mouth
To keep the mouth clean, follow these steps:
Brush the teeth or dentures at least once daily with a soft toothbrush.
Wipe the inside of the mouth with a damp washcloth.
Apply a lip balm to keep the lips moist.
Discover leading-edge gastroenterology care. Call Digestive Disease Consultants of Orange County at 949.612.9090 or simply use the Request an Appointment form.
