Effects of 3 Different Methods of Care on the Peristomal Skin Integrity of Children with Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Tubes: A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE: There are a limited number of studies examining the effects of products used in stoma care. This study compares the effects of 3 different methods of care on the peristomal skin integrity of children with percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes. METHODS: In this randomized controlled study, 60 children were allocated to the 3 study groups (group 1: hydrogel, group 2: soap and water, group 3: saline solution). Dressings were changed daily for all groups during the first week, then weekly for group 1 and daily for groups 2 and 3. The evaluations were performed using a PEG Region Peristomal Skin Integrity Observation Form and devices measuring stoma region pH, moisture, and temperature. One evaluation was performed in a hospital and 4 during home visits in the first month after PEG insertion. MAIN RESULTS: Moisture levels in the stoma region were normal in the saline solution group, high in the hydrogel group, and low in the soap and water group (P <.05). Complications potentially affecting peristomal skin integrity in the stoma region (erythema, drainage, hemorrhage, hypergranulation tissue) were observed most frequently in the soap and water group (5%-45%) and least frequently in the hydrogel group (15%-25%). However, there was no statistically significant difference among the groups with respect to these complications (P >.05). CONCLUSIONS: Because the dressing requires 6 times fewer changes per month, and wound site infection in the stoma site is minimized, the use of glycerin hydrogel should be considered for inclusion in pediatric stoma care procedures.