Gastrostomy Feeding Button Care and Reinsertion
A gastrostomy feeding button serves as an alternative feeding device for an ambulatory patient who is receiving long-term enteral feedings. Approved by the Food and Drug Administration for 6-month implantation, feeding buttons can be used to replace gastrostomy tubes, if necessary.
The button has a mushroom dome at one end and two wing tabs and a flexible safety plug at the other. When inserted into an established stoma, the button lies almost flush with the skin, with only the wings and the top of the safety plug visible.
The button can usually be inserted into a stoma in less than 15 minutes. Besides its cosmetic appeal, the device is easily maintained, reduces skin irritation and breakdown, and is less likely to become dislodged or migrate than an ordinary feeding tube. A one-way, antireflux valve mounted just inside the mushroom dome prevents accidental leakage of gastric contents. The device usually requires replacement after 3 to 4 months, typically because the antireflux valve wears out.
Equipment
For Care
Gloves ▪ feeding accessories, including adapter, feeding catheter, food syringe or bag, and formula ▪ catheter clamp ▪ cleaning equipment, including water, a syringe, cotton-tipped applicator, pipe cleaner, and mild soap or antiseptic solution ▪ Optional: IV pole, pump to provide continuous infusion over several hours.
For Reinsertion
Gastrostomy feeding button of the correct size (or all three sizes, if the correct one isn’t known) ▪ obturator ▪ antiseptic solution ▪ water-soluble lubricant ▪ gloves.
Preparation of Equipment
Obtain the prescribed formula, frequency, amount, and rate of feeding. Gather the appropriate equipment. If using a feeding bag, fill the bag with formula and prime the tubing to prevent air from entering the stomach and distending the abdomen.
Make sure formula is at room temperature because cold formula may cause cramping and discomfort. Shake the formula container before opening it.
Implementation
Verify the doctor’s order.
Confirm the patient’s identify using at least two patient identifiers according to your facility’s policy.1
Explain the procedure to the patient and answer any questions to decrease anxiety and increase cooperation.
For Gastrostomy Feeding Button Care
Position the patient with the head of the bed raised 30 to 45 degrees.
Attach the adapter and feeding catheter to the syringe or feeding bag tubing and prime the catheter.
Open the safety plug and attach the adapter and feeding catheter to the button (as shown below). Elevate the syringe or feeding bag above stomach level, and gravity-feed the formula for 15 to 30 minutes, varying the height as needed to alter the flow rate. Refill the syringe before it’s empty to prevent air from entering the stomach and distending the abdomen. Use a pump for continuous infusion or for feedings lasting several hours.Stay updated, free articles. Join our Telegram channel
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