Please consult manufacturers' guidance for instruction on caring for different types of tubes.

Before you start you will need:

  • Gloves if you are in a healthcare setting or have been advised to use them 
  • Soft damp cloth or gauze pad.

Method:

  1. Wash hands well.
  2. Put on gloves (if using).
  3. Unclip the fixation plate. Slide this gently down the tube, away from the skin.
  4. Ensure the outside of the feeding tube and the stoma site is clean. Wipe with a soft damp cloth or gauze pad if needed.
  5. Take hold of the feeding tube and push it firmly but gently into the stomach by approximately 5cm (2 ). This is called 'advancing' the tube and is the most important step.
  6. Whilst still holding the tube pushed in, twist it all the way round in a full circle (360°). This is called 'rotating' the tube.
  7. Gently pull the tube back, into its original position.
  8. Return the fixation device to its original position, 0.5cm away from the skin. This prevents excessive movement of the tube.
  9. The tube can be taped across the abdomen, away from underwear.

This must be done at least once a week, to prevent the inner part of the feeding tube from sticking to the stomach wall. Please note: It is advised that Freka PEG tubes should be advanced and rotated daily but as a minimum twice a week.

Tubes should NOT be advanced and rotated for the first 2 weeks after placement.   

If the feeding tube cannot be advanced or will not turn a full circle, seek urgent advice from the 24hr Fresenius Kabi helpline  0808 100 1990.

NOTE:  Some gastrostomy tubes must not be rotated (e.g. radiologically inserted gastrostomies, a surgically place jejunostomy). Check with your nurse.

If you would like this information in another format, for example large print or easy read, or if you need help communicating with us, please contact:

First Community (Head Office)

Call: 01737 775450 Email:    fchc.enquiries@nhs.net    Text: 07814 639034

Address: First Community Health and Care, Consort House, 5-7 Queensway, Redhill, Surrey, RH1 1YB.

For office use only: Version 4 GU_TS003 Publication date: May 2026