What position should you be in for a suppository?
Doctors recommend lying on your left side. This takes advantage of the natural angle of the rectum and makes it easier to insert the suppository.
How do you administer a suppository?
Place tip of suppository against anus and gently insert the suppository about 4- inches along the rectal wall. Avoid putting the suppository in stool. 10. After removing your finger, squeeze buttocks together for a few minutes to help client hold in the suppository for as long as possible.
What happens if you put a suppository in the wrong place?
An incorrect insertion will subject the patient to an undignified and invasive procedure that is also ineffective. Suppositories need body heat in order to dissolve and become effective – placed in the middle of faecal matter they will remain intact.
How do you give a bedridden suppository?
Lubricate the end of the suppository with lubricating gel (Fig 4). Gently separate the buttocks, identifying the anus. Slowly insert the lubricated suppository into the rectum (Fig 5). Repeat the procedure if more than one suppository is required.
How do you give an elderly suppository?
Lie on your left side with the right knee slightly bent. Using your finger, gently insert the suppository well up into the rectum, pointed end first. After insertion, stay in position for 15 to 20 minutes if possible until you feel a strong urge to have a bowel movement.
What should you do before administering suppositories?
Before inserting the suppository, gently insert your index finger into the rectum to ascertain whether it is empty or full. If the suppository is to be given to relieve constipation, it should not be given if the rectum is empty.
What to do after inserting a suppository?
Avoid exercise or vigorous movement for 60 minutes after inserting the medication. Do not use petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, to lubricate the suppository. This stops it from melting. Only use water, or a water-based lubricant.
Does a suppository go all the way in?
Gently insert the suppository into the anus, narrow end first. Push it in about 1 inch for adults, or half an inch for infants. In older children, push the suppository in approximately half to one inch, depending on their size.
How do you lay down after a suppository?
Inserting the suppository Get into position. You can stand with one foot up on a chair. You can also lie down on your side with your top leg slightly bent toward your stomach and with your bottom leg straight.
What is the best position for the insertion of a suppository?
Position A is best for self-administration of a suppository. Small children can be held in a crawling position. Relax the buttock just before inserting the suppository to ease insertion.
How do you use rectal suppositories?
Rectal Suppositories. Lift up your buttocks and insert suppository around 1/2 inch to 1 inch into your rectum so it stays Do not get up right away, lie down for for 5-15 minutes to allow suppository to melt Discard your gloves, foil paper and any garbage. Wash hands with soap and water.
How do you administer a suppository to a child?
Dip the suppository for a few seconds in lukewarm water to soften the exterior. Lie on your left side with knees bent or in the knee-to-chest position (see drawings A and B). Position A is best for self-administration of a suppository. Small children can be held in a crawling position.
How do I give a suppository or an enema?
Whether you’re giving a suppository or an enema, wash your hands and start with the person you’re caring for lying in bed. Remove any clothing on their bottom half, but keep them as covered as you can with a sheet. Now, help them turn over onto their left side, this helps the medication pass into their rectum more easily.