NG Tube Clean Out Admission Instructions
East Tennessee Children’s Hospital
Your child has been scheduled for an overnight admission to East Tennessee Children’s Hospital for a colon cleanout. Children’s Hospital is located at 2018 W Clinch Ave, Knoxville TN 37916, you will park in garage C and check in at the main registration desk at the time listed above.
Please bring any comfort items your child may want such as a favorite lovey/blanket, electronics (and chargers), books, and/or toys. Please also remember to bring a change of clothes and toiletries for yourself as it will be an overnight stay.
Your child will have an NG tube placed to deliver the cleanout medication. The small tube is placed into the nose, down the throat, and into the stomach. It is taped to the side of the face to keep the tube in place. Once it is in place, an x-ray will be taken to make sure that it is in the correct position. The placement could feel ticklish, cause coughing, nausea or vomiting, and/or irritate the nose.
Your child will also have an IV catheter placed for hydration. An IV is a flexible tube (catheter) that is inserted into the vein with a small needle. Once the catheter is in place, the needle is removed. It is usually placed in the top of the hand or in the arm and is taped onto the skin to keep it in place.
The NG tube and the IV will both be placed by the nursing staff in your child’s room while they are awake. Medication may be used to help calm your child before the procedure. The medication will run through the tube continuously during the cleanout.
During the clean out your child will only be able to have clear liquids such as Gatorade, Pedialyte, broth, jello, and/or popsicles. It is helpful to have your child walking in the hall each hour.
If your child is having an endoscopy, it will be scheduled for the following day. The time will depend on the Physician’s schedule and when your child has completed their clean out. Unless there are extenuating circumstances, your child will be able to go home that day after they have recovered from the procedure.
Additional instructions will be provided if your child is having an additional procedure such as a pH Probe, Bravo, or Pill Cam. You may also visit our website at giforkids.com
If your child is sick or has a fever within 24 hours of the admission, please notify our office immediately at 865-546-3998.
*NOTHING TO EAT OR DRINK ON THE MORNING OF THE ADMISSION*
