Feeding tube leak? Is this common?

[mimo18]

We were informed on Monday, that dad's feeding tube was leaking in his lungs, he has now developed infection, pneumonia, fever, ventilation back to 100%, peep 10, heart rate 140... this is after they told us he's clear from covid-19 pounds and the virus all together. Anyone experienced this? Trying to stay positive but feel like he's being neglected. We are not allowed to see him in person just on facetime.

[Ferham]

Hi Mimo , My husband also suffered with this, I was devastated as like you it was when he had come through the worst and it was another setback. However after speaking to a family friend who was a a retired ITU nurse , she told me it was common . After a couple of days he bounced back.

[mimo18 in reply to Ferham]

OMG! you just renewed my hope. Thank you ❤

[Gooddaysunshine]

When I was in intensive care with coronavirus, it was certainly something they were very aware of. In fact they used to bring the mobile x-ray machine to my bed on a regular basis to make sure there was no leakage into my lungs.

Fortunately there never was, although the tube came out a couple of times, and it was never pleasant having it re-inserted.

[FamilyHistorian]

I’m not a medical person but I was a little surprised by this question. When ever my feeding tube was put in, I pulled it out quite often, before it could be used I had to have an X-ray to ensure it was sitting in the right place in the stomach. Also each day the fluid in my stomach was tested.Having said that I had double pneumonia and had multiple drains.

[mimo18 in reply to FamilyHistorian]

We're being told, this is common in the U.S. which is baffling. At this point we are staying positive and praying for a recovery.

[CLM68]

It is unfortunately more common than it should be, given that the risk of food going into lungs can result in pneumonia and cause further setbacks to a patient. I was lucky that it never happened. I would certainly want to know how it happened and why it wasn't picked up faster. Hope your Dad is recovering. Not too sure what reason they can now have for preventing you from seeing him given the fact that as a country we are no longer isolating from COVID and you can always wear protective clothing when you see him?

[mimo18 in reply to CLM68]

Unfortunately Dad passed away 2 hours ago, too many complications after the leaky food tube. I pray that he is comfortable now. The last 3.5 weeks were brutal.

[CLM68 in reply to mimo18]

I am so sorry for your loss. On a more practical note and based on your comments, Make sure you are satisfied with what they put on the death certificate, we have had issues in the past with this.

[mimo18 in reply to CLM68]

Thank you. Good point! I will keep a close eye on that.

[Grant_za in reply to mimo18]

I'm so sorry for your loss. This really should not happen.The tube was not "leaking" into the lungs, it was inserted incorrectly and took the wrong path.

There are a number of checks that should be carried out to ensure correct placement, the simplest of which is a combined CO2 test and gastric Ph test. Any uncertainty should be confirmed by Radiographic scan. Incorrect insertion usually results in patient discomfort very soon after feeding commences, unless the patient is not conscious.

When inserting a NG tube in an unconscious patient radiographic scans are routine, due the the simple reason an unconscious patient, unlike a conscious patient, is unable to react or indicate discomfort.

Quite frankly were I in your shoes, I would "lawyer-up" and ensure an inquest is held.

Nothing can bring your father back, but perhaps taking action can prevent the loss of another's father.

Medical teams in an ICU environment are under tremendous pressure, Covid has made things exponentially more difficult, but there are simple and standard protocols to be observed in treatment plans and medical procedures.

medicalprotection.org/uk/ar...

[Retro58 in reply to mimo18]

So sorry to hear that especially as things were getting better. 💗

[Ferham]

I'm so sorry for you loss, he fought such a brave battle . Sending love and prayers

[Gooddaysunshine]

Very sorry to hear of your sad loss.

[FamilyHistorian]

My thoughts are with you

[Ladysurvivor1]

So sorry for your loss🙏🏽 I would of commented more on my journey but your dad is now at peace god bless you & your family🥰