Page 68 - Demonstrating skill coppysaved colored-converted

4.12.1 Cleansing Enema (Evacuating Enema)
Purpose
For constipation – cleansing enema stimulates peristalsis and (removes faces)
To prepare the patient for an operation – mostly for abdominal and pelvic operation.
For diagnostic tests before – certain x-ray exams. E.g. Barium enema and before giving
stool specimens for certain parasites.
For incontinent patients-to keep the colon empty.

Types of liquid used for a cleansing enema
A. Tap water: usually prepared in large quantity 500 to 1500cc
N.B: Tap water must not be administered continuously to infants or to adults who have
altered kidney or cardiac reserve-to avoid water intoxication
B. Soap solution: can be made by dissolving a small amount of a bland white soap in
the water. Usually prepared in large quantity-500 to 1000cc of soap solution depending
on the age and condition of the patient. The Purpose of the soap in the water is to aid in
stimulating peristalsis by chemical irritation to the mucus membrane and thus loosen
the feces.
N.B: Too much soap produces severe irritation of the membrane of the colon. This
condition makes the examination of the lower colon difficult.
C. Normal saline: is a salt solution made up by mixing one teaspoon of salt in a liter of
water. Usually contains 1000cc of normal saline and Epson salt 15mg to 120gm. In
1000cc water.
Equipment
1. Tray containing
2. Funnel or irrigation can
3. Rectal tubing for adults with a clip or pinch clamp
o
o
4. Jug of solution at a temperature of 40.5 C – 49 C ( Lukewarm solution)
5. Lubricant
6. Lotion thermometer, if available
7. Swab in a gallipot to lubricate the catheter
8. Kidney dish for used catheter
9. Tray cover
10. Screen
11. IV stand
12. Warm, dry bedpan with toilet paper if the patient is confined to a bed or a common if
available
13. Mackintosh with towel

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