Home Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy Feeding: Difficulties and Needs of Caregivers, Qualitative Study

Abstract Background Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) may cause complications when adequate and appropriate care is not provided. To avoid these complications, caregivers’ experiences and practices must be considered. Methods This study used the phenomenological qualitative research method. Twenty‐one caregivers underwent in‐depth interviews and were observed for PEG practices. Interview and observational data were analyzed using content analysis. Results This study revealed 8 themes and 24 subthemes under 3 categories of PEG management, social‐emotional change of the caregivers, and expectations, and it was observed that caregivers made errors in stoma care, tube feeding, and medication administration through the PEG tube. Conclusion Results indicated that comprehensive and practical discharge training, and home care and counseling services should be provided to effectively address the challenges faced by caregivers of patients with PEG.