From the Guidelines
To treat redness around a G-tube skin site, clean the area daily with mild soap and water, then pat dry completely, as recommended by the most recent guidelines 1. This approach is supported by the latest evidence, which emphasizes the importance of proper site care in preventing complications and promoting healing of the irritated tissue.
- Clean the area daily with mild soap and water, then pat dry completely.
- Apply a protective barrier cream such as zinc oxide or petroleum jelly to the irritated skin.
- For persistent redness, use an antifungal cream like clotrimazole or miconazole twice daily for 7-10 days, as fungal infections commonly occur in this moist environment 1.
- Keep the site dry by changing gauze dressings regularly and avoiding moisture buildup.
- Ensure the G-tube is properly secured to prevent movement that can irritate the skin.
- If the redness is accompanied by drainage, odor, increased pain, fever, or spreads beyond 2cm from the tube site, contact a healthcare provider as antibiotics may be needed 1. Redness often occurs due to gastric leakage irritating the skin, friction from tube movement, or microbial growth in the warm, moist environment around the tube.
- The use of a barrier film or cream, as well as a foam or silver dressing, can help protect the surrounding skin and reduce the risk of infection 1.
- It is also important to verify the proper tension between the two bolsters and avoid unnecessary tube movement or excessive pressure 1.
- In some cases, the application of a topical antimicrobial agent or a topical corticosteroid cream may be necessary to manage the redness and prevent further complications 1.
From the Research
G Tube Skin Site Redness Treatment
- The provided studies do not directly address the treatment of G tube skin site redness 2, 3, 4.
- However, the studies discuss the importance of proper care and management of gastrostomy tubes to prevent complications, including infections 2, 3.
- One study found that the use of prophylactic antimicrobials during PEG tube placement reduces the risk of peristomal infection 4.
- The study suggests that the administration of systemic prophylactic antibiotics for PEG tube placement can reduce peristomal infection, which may be relevant to preventing or treating skin site redness 4.
- Key points to consider in the management of G tube skin site redness include:
- Proper wound care and dressing
- Monitoring for signs of infection
- Use of antimicrobial agents as needed
- Consultation with a healthcare professional for guidance on treatment and management 4.