G-tube Clinic

Le Bonheur's G-tube Clinic consists of a multidisciplinary team that manages your child’s g-tube, nutrition and growth. Our team coordinates with other specialties to ensure your child’s nutritional goals and g-tube needs are being met. When you come to clinic we will develop a plan of care unique to your child's need.

The Le Bonheur G-tube Clinic Team

Your child, depending on their individual needs, will see some or all of the following professionals:

Registered Nurse: This is the primary contact person who coordinates and manages your child's medical plan of care. The registered nurse will help assist with any g-tube or nutritional related needs and ensure that the correct specialist addresses these needs while in clinic or at any time between clinic visits. The registered nurse will assist with any paperwork needed for your child’s school, daycare, nursing company, durable medical equipment company etc.

Pediatric Surgeon/Nurse Practitioner: This provider will obtain a brief history about your child since their last hospitalization or clinic appointment and complete a focused assessment in relation to your child's specific problems. They coordinate care and take into consideration the recommendations of the g-tube multi-disciplinary team.

Gastrostomy Tube/Wound Care Nurse: The G-tube nurses will assess the g-tube for fit and balloon volume and determine if any supplies are needed. G-tube nurses also assess the site for overgrowth of granulation tissue and other problems with the G-tube site. Families will be instructed on how to replace the G-tube approximately three months following surgery.

Registered Dietitian: The registered dietitian is specifically trained in assessing nutritional needs and providing individualized care for infants, children and young adults. During your visit, the dietitian will assess your child’s weight, growth and feeding tolerance while making adjustments to your child's feeding regimen to achieve optimal growth ensuring all of their nutritional needs are met.

Case Manager: The case manager assists with obtaining prescribed supplies, formula and equipment and processing these orders. They assist with any supply and/or insurance company concerns.

Child Life Specialist: The child life specialist focuses on the psychosocial needs of patients and their families. They can assist in developing coping plans for g-tube changes and other procedures, as well as help prepare you and your child for what will happen during these procedures. Child life specialists are also available to provide education to patients and siblings about new medical equipment and diagnoses. They will also work to provide opportunities to play for patients and siblings during clinic visits.

Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP): The Speech-Language Pathologist will help determine ways for your child to safely taste, drink or eat by mouth. They will provide tips for tooth brushing and gum cleaning. The SLP and the family will discuss follow-up therapy needs and provide guidance for referrals.

Social Worker: This professional provides assistance to the patients and families with social, emotional and financial issues related to your child's diagnosis.

How do I prepare for clinic?

Plan on the clinic visit to last 2-3 hours. Please arrange for someone to watch your other children. Please bring the following to your appointment:

Snacks (if your child eats food by mouth) or formula so that your child won't miss any scheduled feeding times.
Any measuring cups, spoons, or containers you use to prepare your child's formula.
Any G-tube supplies needed to administer your child's formula.
Diapers and any other supplies or home medical equipment your child uses.
If your child is in school, please bring any paperwork that may need to be completed.
Any comfort objects or toys your child likes to play with.