Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

The primary function of gastrostomy tubes is to provide long-term stomach decompression or feedings. These tubes are surgically inserted through the abdominal wall into the stomach, allowing for direct access to the gastrointestinal tract. This is particularly beneficial for patients who have difficulty swallowing or require nutritional support due to various medical conditions. The use of gastrostomy tubes enables the delivery of formula directly into the stomach, ensuring that patients receive the necessary nutrients and hydration when oral intake is not possible.

In addition to nutritional support, gastrostomy tubes can help remove excess gas and fluids from the stomach, thereby assisting in decompression. This function is crucial for patients experiencing gastrointestinal dysmotility or conditions where traditional feeding methods are inadequate. Other options provided do not accurately represent the primary purpose of gastrostomy tubes, as they serve distinct purposes unrelated to enteral feeding or decompression within the digestive system.