G-Tube Removal: Preparation and Post-Removal Instructions (PDF Handout here)
Once it has been determined by your doctor or the SLP staff that you are ready to have your g-tube removed, an appointment will be made. You should never attempt to remove your g-tube yourself.
Prior to your appointment:
Prior to your appointment:
- Take all medications at least four hours prior to your appointment time.
- Have a light meal three hours before your appointment time
- Nothing by mouth following the light meal
- Have non-adhering gauze bandages and tape for dressing changes
- Have blue or green food coloring on hand
- Change dressing as often as needed if bandage becomes soaked
- Nothing by mouth for four hours following tube removal
- Use food coloring to dye any food before eating
- Eat only very lightly after four hours
- Limit the amount of liquids until you are certain there is no leakage from the tube site.
- If food contents (dye) are seen to leak from the wound site, stop eating/drinking; wait one hour; repeat the trial.
- Only small meals should be eaten for the first 48 hours to allow the stomach to close. Larger meals may stretch the stomach and prevent closure of the wound.
- The wound may continue to seep for several days. This is normal and should not be concerning unless food/liquid continues to leak. If so, call your doctor.
- Change the dressing as often as necessary to keep the wound site dry. Once there is no longer seeping, no dressing is needed.
