What is an appropriate nursing action for a patient with a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube?

The appropriate nursing action for a patient with a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube focuses on maintaining skin integrity and ensuring proper care around the insertion site. Regularly reassessing the skin integrity and cleansing the area around the insertion site is crucial for preventing complications such as infection or skin irritation. The PEG tube site can be prone to irritation or infection due to moisture, food residue, and the presence of the tube itself.

By regularly checking the area, the nurse can identify any early signs of complications, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, and can act promptly to address those issues. Maintaining clean and intact skin is vital for the patient’s overall health and prevents complications that can arise from poor care.

The other potential actions may not be suitable for optimal patient care. For example, administering medications through the PEG tube must follow specific protocols to ensure accuracy and prevent complications, such as clogging the tube. Changing the dressing every day regardless of its condition may not be necessary and could lead to unnecessary irritation. Similarly, completely replacing the tube if it appears loose is not a standard practice and should only be done under assessment by a healthcare professional, as there may be other solutions to secure the tube without replacement.