Can a patient with a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG) tube swim?

Can Patients with PEG Tubes Swim?

Yes, patients with a PEG tube can swim after the stoma site has fully healed (typically after a few weeks), provided they cover the exit site with a waterproof dressing when swimming in public pools. 1

Timing Before Swimming is Permitted

• Swimming should only be allowed once the PEG exit site is well-healed, which typically occurs approximately 1-2 weeks after initial insertion 1
• The stoma canal must have completed granulation before water exposure is considered safe 1
• During the first week post-placement, the site requires daily sterile dressing changes and local disinfection, making water exposure inappropriate 1

Specific Swimming Recommendations

Where to Swim

• Sea water is generally recommended as a safer swimming environment 1
• Private swimming pools are acceptable for swimming with a PEG tube 1
• Public swimming pools require additional precautions (waterproof covering) 1

Protection Requirements

• The PEG exit site and tube must be covered with a waterproof dressing when swimming in public pools 1
• Options for waterproof coverage include clear waterproof film dressings or similar occlusive barriers 1
• This protective covering helps prevent contamination from pool water and reduces infection risk 1

Post-Swimming Care Protocol

Immediately after swimming, patients must perform routine exit-site care: 1

• Remove the waterproof dressing 1
• Cleanse the stoma site with fresh tap water and soap 1
• Thoroughly dry the skin around the exit site 1
• Inspect for any signs of infection (erythema, secretion, induration) 1
• Apply a clean, breathable dressing if needed 1

Infection Risk Considerations

• The evidence from peritoneal dialysis patients (who have similar external catheter sites) shows that infections are rarely reported in those who swim when proper precautions are followed 2
• Exit-site infections can occur but are uncommon when appropriate protective measures and post-swimming care are implemented 2
• The most frequent PEG complication overall is local wound infection (approximately 15% of cases), but this is primarily related to inadequate daily care rather than swimming specifically 1

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Never allow swimming before complete stoma healing (minimum 1-2 weeks), as premature water exposure significantly increases infection risk 1
• Do not skip the waterproof covering in public pools, as these environments have higher bacterial loads than private pools or sea water 1
• Always perform exit-site care immediately after swimming rather than delaying it, as prompt cleaning removes potential contaminants 1
• Avoid occlusive dressings for routine daily care (when not swimming), as they promote moisture and skin maceration, but waterproof dressings are appropriate specifically for swimming 1
• Ensure the external fixation plate maintains at least 5mm of free tube movement to prevent pressure necrosis, and check this after swimming activities 1

Additional Tube Security Measures

• Some patients may benefit from additional fixation or securement devices to minimize traction on the stoma site during swimming and other physical activities 1
• The tube should be secured to prevent pulling or displacement during water activities 1