What instructions should you give to a client who is going to expel an enema in the toilet?
— Written By Katy Wallis Show
Updated on August 19, 2022 An enema is the insertion of a liquid into the rectum or colon through the anus. Your doctor may recommend an enema for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes. Constipation is one of the most common reasons for an over-the-counter (OTC) at-home enema. Keep reading to learn about the types of enema, their purpose, how they are performed, benefits and risks, how to prepare for one, and more. What are the different types of enema?Xmocb/Getty Images The types of enema include:
Discuss all the diagnostic and treatment options with your doctor to understand which options are right for you. There may be alternative diagnostic procedures or therapies to relieve constipation. Types of enema solutionsTypes of enema solutions for constipation include:
Some people have reported benefits from using coffee enemas, but scientific research would not recommend its use because its effectiveness and safety are dubious. Why is an enema performed?Your doctor may recommend a therapeutic enema to treat diseases and conditions of the colon or rectum, including:
Your doctor may also order an enema before medical procedures. A cleansing enema makes it easier to examine your colon during certain tests, such as a colonoscopy. A cleansing enema can also lower the number of bacteria in your colon and reduce the risk of infection during certain surgeries. Alternative reasons people perform enemas, which may not be based on scientific evidence, include:
How is an enema performed at home?You can give yourself a therapeutic enema for constipation at home. Pharmacies and grocery stores sell pre-made enema solutions and enema kits. If you want to make your own, you will need to purchase enema supplies at a medical supply store or online from a reputable medical supply company. At-home enema equipment you may needIf you are not using a store-bought enema from the pharmacy or grocery store, you may need the following enema equipment for constipation:
Preparing for an at-home enema • Avoid eating for at least half an hour before using the enema. At-home enema procedure detailsFollow the instructions from your doctor or on the packaging of a store-bought enema. Generally, giving yourself a therapeutic enema includes these steps:
Enemas, including those with therapeutic purposes, are generally very safe if you follow instructions closely. How does a medical professional perform an enema?The procedure for a therapeutic or cleansing enema is different from a diagnostic enema. Preparing for a medical enema
Therapeutic or bowel cleansing enema procedureIf a nurse or other healthcare professional performs your therapeutic enema, some of the steps are the same as an at-home enema. At the medical office, you will lie on a medical procedure table on your side and pull your knees up to your chest. Your provider will:
There will be a toilet in the room or nearby for you to void. Diagnostic enema procedureA barium enema generally includes these steps:
When can I go home?People usually go home and resume their usual activities and diet immediately after an enema, including a barium enema. When should I call my doctor?It is important to keep your follow-up appointments after an enema. Contact your doctor for questions and concerns between appointments. Call your doctor right away if you have:
Seek immediate medical care if you have any of these symptoms.
Frequently asked questionsHere are some frequently asked questions about enemas. How long does it take for an enema to work?Enemas should provide relief very quickly after and sometimes as they are taking place. However, this may depend on your situation and the type of enema. Ask a doctor for more guidance. Do enemas hurt?An enema should not be painful when administered properly. During the procedure, you may feel fullness, mild pressure, or brief, minimal cramping. You may also feel like you need to have a bowel movement. Take a few long, deep breaths to help yourself relax. Stop and contact your doctor if you have pain or discomfort while self-administering an enema. What happens if you do not poop after an enema?A therapeutic enema should provide prompt relief of constipation and hard stools. Call your doctor if you do not pass any stool or if you pass only a small amount of stool and still feel constipated. Can I drink water after an enema?After a barium enema, your doctor may instruct you to drink extra water for 24 hours to keep your stools soft. Call your doctor if you have constipation for more than 2 days or cannot pass gas. SummaryOver-the-counter enemas can be a useful way to relieve symptoms of constipation. Some doctors may administer enemas in a clinical setting for treatment or diagnostic purposes. You can also try an at-home enema kit. Contact your doctor with specific questions about the type of enema you should use, what to expect, and any other points that cause you concern. What are your nursing responsibilities when administering an enema?The administration of an enema should be undertaken by a competent nurse. An enema is a liquid preparation inserted into the rectum. The nurse must explain the procedure to the patient and should assist the individual before, during and after the procedure. The nurse should document all care given.
What are the precautions in using an enema?Do not force the enema tip into the rectum because you could hurt yourself. Squeeze the bottle until the recommended amount of the drug is inside the rectum. You do not need to empty the bottle completely because it has more liquid than needed. Remove the bottle tip from the rectum.
What position should be given to the patient during the cleansing enema?The left lateral position is the most appropriate position for giving an enema because of the anatomical characteristics of the colon. Although the length of the tube to be inserted is designated as approximately 5-6 cm, do not try to force it but pull it back slightly if any resistance is felt.
What is the first thing to do in enema administration?The first step is to prepare the enema solution in the bathroom.. Clamp the tubing and then fill the enema bag with warm water. ... . Add the castile soap and mix by gently rotating the enema bag. ... . Release the clamp on the tubing and allow a tiny amount of water out. ... . Reclamp the tubing and hang it from an IV pole.. |