What if the stoma looks infected?
Once the initial healing takes place infection of the stoma is uncommon. Clean the area several times a day as prescribed. If signs of skin irritation (redness, soreness, pain, swelling, unusual drainage) persist, call the patient’s doctor or health care provider. 4. What if there is leakage at the stoma? Leakage may occur because the tube has pulled away from the abdominal wall or because the stoma site is enlarged. If the stoma site has enlarged, the doctor may need to replace the tube. Report to the doctor or health care provider if the leakage does not stop. 5. What if the feeding tube becomes disconnected? If the feeding tube becomes disconnected, estimate the amount of formula lost, reattach the feeding tube, and continue feeding, adding the estimated amount of lost formula. 6. What if the tube is shorter or longer than usual? The length of the tube when originally placed is noted. Ask the patient’s doctor or health care provider about marking the tube where it should be located.
