W14 - Impact of Food & Drink Difficulties

Question 1

What is an NG tube?

Answer 1

• Nasogastric Tube
• Fitted by trained ward nurses
• Temporary Measure
• Swallowing Ax may be needed whilst the NG tube is fitted

Question 2

What is a PEG?

Answer 2

• Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy (PEG)
• Typically used for long term feeding
• Common but not particularly easy
• Commonly fitted in anticipation of loss of swallowing function (MND, head and neck cancer)

Question 3

What is a PEJ?

Answer 3

• Percutaneous Endoscopic Jejunostomy (PEJ)
• Inserted at the level of the bowel, into the jejunum
• May be necessary if stomach function lost - e.g. stomach cancer

Question 4

What are the potential impacts of tube placement on health?

Answer 4

• Placement Complications (go the wrong way, can work itself out)
• Post-op Complications (site infections, PEG surgery is quite invasive)
• Blockages
• Increased Agitation (Esp. in people with cognitive difficulties. Use of mittens or bridle nasogastric tubes is controversial)
• Potential for refeeding syndrome (potential for fatal shifts in fluids and electrolytes)
• Risk of aspiration is still present with tube feedings