A feeding tube, or enteral feeding device, delivers nutrition, hydration, and medication directly into the stomach or small intestine when a person cannot safely eat or drink. Consistent, proper cleaning is essential for maintaining the device’s integrity and preventing serious complications, such as tube blockages and life-threatening infections. A strict hygiene routine ensures the tube functions correctly for continued health support.
Essential Supplies and Preparation
Before cleaning or flushing, ensure thorough hand hygiene by washing hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. A clean workspace is required, ensuring all necessary supplies are readily accessible.
Required supplies generally include a large-volume syringe, typically 60 milliliters (mL), often an ENFit-compatible type. You will also need clean, lukewarm water, mild, unscented liquid soap, and clean materials like gauze or cotton swabs for cleaning the external site.
Daily Flushing and Internal Maintenance
Routine flushing prevents feeding tube occlusion caused by formula or medication residue buildup. This internal maintenance should be performed before and after every use, including feedings and medication administration. The recommended flush volume for adults is generally between 30 mL and 60 mL of water, though this volume varies based on tube size and hydration needs.
Lukewarm water is preferable for flushing, as cold water can cause abdominal cramping. Attach the syringe filled with water to the feeding port and push the plunger gently and steadily. Avoid applying excessive force, which could damage or rupture the tube wall. For continuous feedings, flush the tube at least every four to six hours to clear lingering formula.
Even if the tube is not currently being used, it should still be flushed at least once daily to maintain its patency and prevent the formation of hardened deposits.
Addressing Blockages and Clogs
Clogs can occur despite diligent flushing, often presenting as resistance when attempting to push a flush. The initial corrective action is to use warm water and a 60 mL syringe, which generates less pressure than smaller syringes, reducing the risk of tube damage. Attach the syringe and gently push and pull the plunger in a slow, back-and-forth motion to apply alternating pressure on the blockage.
If the blockage does not clear immediately, fill the tube with warm water and clamp it, allowing the water to soak for 15 to 20 minutes to soften the obstruction. Gentle massage or “milking” of the tube can be attempted to physically break up the material. If water flushes are unsuccessful, a healthcare provider may advise using an enzymatic declogging agent. If all attempts fail, or if you cannot push or pull the plunger, immediately stop and contact a medical professional, as forcing a flush can rupture the tube.
Cleaning External Components and Accessories
The external components and accessories, including the tube insertion site, feeding bags, and syringes, require a strict cleaning schedule to prevent bacterial growth. The skin around the tube site, known as the stoma, should be cleaned daily using mild soap and warm water. Gently clean the skin in a circular motion, moving outward from the tube, ensuring you clean beneath the external bolster, if present, using a cotton swab or gauze.
After cleaning the stoma, rinse away all soap residue with clean water and pat the area completely dry with a clean towel. Reusable feeding bags and tubing must be rinsed thoroughly with warm, soapy water after each use and allowed to air dry completely. Syringes and extension sets should also be washed with mild soap and water after every use.
These accessories must be replaced regularly:
- Syringes often need replacement every few days.
- Extension sets should be replaced every two weeks or as cloudiness or wear appears.