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The stomach and abdomen generally heals in 5 to 7 days. Moderate pain can be managed with medications. The patient will be fed intravenously (IV) for at least 24 hours. Feedings will begin when bowel sounds are heard. Feedings will start slowly with clear liquids and gradually be increased.
The patient/family will be taught:
How to care for the skin around the tube
Signs and symptoms of infection
What to do if the tube is pulled out
Signs and symptoms of tube blockage
How to empty (decompress) the stomach through the tube
How and what to feed through the gastrostomy tube
How to conceal the tube under clothing
What normal activities can be continued
Review Date 7/22/2025
Updated by: Todd Eisner, MD, Private practice specializing in Gastroenterology in Boca Raton and Delray Beach, Florida at Gastroenterology Consultants of Boca Raton. Affiliate Assistant Professor, Florida Atlantic University School of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
