You can pick up drain sponges. They may come automatically with the other feeding tube things from your medical supply company. These are 4"x4" gauze pads with a slit half way thru them. They go between the feeding tube's plunger and the body. They get changed after showering or every day if not showering as often. Just make sure to watch closely for any redness or signs of infection around the plunger site. I use a little antibiotic ointment around that area before putting 2 drain sponges on. Also get some paper tape from the medical supply company or the hospital pharmacy. Tape the open ends of the drain sponges so they dont fall off.

What worked the best for me was a pregnancy belly band. I also was given something similar during one of my hospital stays. it was white and very stretchy with velcro closure so it could be adjusted to fit almost anyone. Ive also seen this was available by the hospital pharmacy's durable medical equipment section. Im sure your hubby (like most men) would have a fit about wearing something like a pregnancy belly band over their waist. But it really does work and holds everything in place.

Unfortunately, most of us who got the feeding tube had a couple days where we were pretty sore. Not as many here have gotten a port. But, also remember everyone is different so hopefully your hubby wont be as uncomfortable as I was. I had both the port and the feeding tube and felt like I was hit by a truck for a couple days. To me Im just amazed at the level of discomfort I felt and how this was supposed to be an out patient procedure. I hurt so much they kept me overnight. Just make sure his doctor prescribes strong enough pain meds. Sleeping after the procedure will help him to feel better.

Good luck tomorrow!!!


Christine
SCC 6/15/07 L chk & by L molar both Stag I, age44
2x cispltn-35 IMRT end 9/27/07
-65 lbs in 2 mo, no caregvr
Clear PET 1/08
4/4/08 recur L chk Stag I
surg 4/16/08 clr marg
215 HBO dives
3/09 teeth out, trismus
7/2/09 recur, Stg IV
8/24/09 trach, ND, mandiblctmy
3wks medicly inducd coma
2 mo xtended hospital stay, ICU & burn unit
PICC line IV antibx 8 mo
10/4/10, 2/14/11 reconst surg
OC 3x in 3 years
very happy to be alive smile