The number of patients in a community setting with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes is increasing year-on-year. PEGs provide a secure route of delivering artificial nutrition, hydration, and medication in patients who are unable to swallow safely, however, there are complications associated with their insertion and ongoing use. Common problems include infection, leakage, tube blockages, development of granulomas at the insertion site, and so-called ‘buried bumper syndrome’. Community nurses are ideally placed to identify these complications, and this article provides a quick reference guide to troubleshooting and managing these issues.
