Can children and adults with feeding tubes swim safely? This guide outlines best practices for safe swimming with feeding tubes.
Don't let a feeding tube keep you or your family member out of the water. Swimming can remain a safe and enjoyable part of the fun as long as the tube site is well-healed and healthy. Get the physician's ok, follow the guidelines below, and get ready to make some waves!
Tips for Safe Swimming with Feeding Tubes
- First, check with your physician to ensure it is safe for you to swim and get answers to any questions you may have.
- Choose ocean water or salt or chlorinated pools. Lakes and ponds are stagnant water and could contain bacteria.
- Individuals with a nasogastric feeding tube can swim with no restrictions, just close the feed and medication ports before getting into the pool, and make sure the tape that secures the tube in place is waterproof.
- Make sure all the tube ports or openings are securely closed.
- Extension sets should be removed from a low-profile G-tube/button and the opening to the tube properly sealed before swimming.
- Secure the feeding tube to prevent accidental friction or dislodgement. Wearing a swim shirt or one-piece bathing suit can provide some extra protection. You do not need to cover or use a dressing when you are swimming if your tube site is well-healed and healthy.
- Make sure to wash and rise thoroughly around the tube site after swimming in sandy areas.
Learn more about CDC safe swimming guidelines. For any questions, visit the Aveanna Medical Solutions website or call our team at 866-883-1188.