Question

Which action should the nurse take when caring for a patient receiving a continuous enteral feeding through a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube if the feeding tube becomes occluded?

1) Use 15 mL of cranberry juice in a 30-mL syringe to clear the tubing.
2) Ask to have the PEG tube replaced to prevent rupture of the gastrostomy.
3) Flush the PEG tube with 60 mL of cold tap water, using gravity.
4) Try using cola if a 20- to 30-mL warm-water flush is ineffective.

Answer 1

To clear an occluded PEG tube, start with a 20-30 mL warm-water flush. If unsuccessful, follow healthcare facility protocols, which may involve the use of a specialized declogging agent or replacement of the tube. Always maintain aseptic technique.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a continuous enteral feeding tube such as a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube becomes occluded, you should not use cranberry juice or cold tap water as these methods are not evidence-based and can potentially cause deterioration of the tube material or harm to the patient. The use of cola is not best practice either. Instead, the first action should be to attempt to clear the tubing by using a gentle flushing technique with 20-30 mL of warm water. If the feeding tube remains occluded after a warm-water flush, further immediate interventions by a healthcare professional may be required, which could include using a specialized tube declogging agent or replacing the tube if necessary. It is essential to follow the specific protocols of the healthcare facility and the tube manufacturer's recommendations.

It is important to maintain aseptic technique while handling the tube to prevent infections. Frequent flushing of the PEG tube with water before and after medications and feedings, according to the facility's protocol, can help to prevent tube occlusion.