The temporary C-tube will be in place for about six weeks. During
that time, there are a few simple things you should do to care for
the C-tube.

General Guidelines

1. Flush the C-tube with 10 cc of water twice every day for the
   first week, using a 10 cc syringe. (See page 32 for detailed
   instructions on how to flush the C-tube.)
              
2. For the first week after leaving the hospital, continue your
   regular bowel routine or rectal enema every other day. After
   about one week, you will begin the irrigation routine through
   the temporary C-tube.
                   
3. Always keep your C-tube site clean and tube taped to your skin.
   (The next section of this guide describes how to keep this site
   clean and prevent infection at the exit site of your C-tube.)
                   
4. Make sure there is plenty of fiber and water in your diet to keep
   your stool soft and to prevent constipation. Call your nurse if
   you want to discuss ways to increase the fiber and water in
   your diet.

These foods are rich in fiber: wheat or bran, breads and cereals,
raw fruits and vegetables, beans, and popcorn.

These foods can cause constipation and should be limited:
bananas, cheese, rice, yogurt, peanut butter, apple juice,
applesauce, milk products, and white bread.

5. Be careful not to pull the tube out. This is especially important
   during the first six weeks as the tube is establishing a clear
   passage in your abdomen. If the C-tube should fall out, insert
   the Foley catheter into the opening and contact your physician
   or nurse immediately to arrange to have the C-tube re-inserted.
   (See page 37 to learn how to insert the Foley Catheter.)
                      
   If you are unable to insert the Foley catheter, call your nurse
   or physician.