Administration of Enema - Answers

Arlo Guthrie — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 07:25:45 GMT

Current Revision posted to Revision Guide For Student Nurses - Part 1 by Arlo Guthrie on 3/31/2009 7:25:45 AM

ANSWERS

Define enema.
An enema is a fluid or semi-fluid preparation instilled through the anal sphincter into the rectum and colon.
List 4 possible reasons for the administration of an enema.
- To relieve constipation.
- Diagnostic - to outline the rectum and colon for radiography.
- To empty the bowel prior to surgery.
- Drug route (rare).
Give 6 examples of evacuant enemas.
- Soap and water solution.
- Saline.
- Liquid paraffin.
- Glycerine and water.
- Olive oil and water.
- Proprietary brand such as Micralax.
State the dose for an evacuant enema.
The dose for an evacuant enema is 7-14mls/kg (average 10mls/kg).
What device is often used to administer an evacuant enema to a medium to large sized dog?
A Higginson's syringe.
List the equipment that you would prepare prior to administering an evacuant enema to a 0.5kg kitten.
- Protective gloves and apron (a mask is often a good idea too!).
- Plenty of newspaper to protect the environment (and a clinical waste sack to hand for disposing of the soiled material).
- A small standard cat catheter (3FG).
- Vaseline or Xylocaine gel to aid insertion.
- 5mls of evacuant enema drawn up into two 2.5ml syringes for ease of administration.
- An assistant to restrain the kitten.