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12/28/13

Inserting a Rectal Suppository

Inserting a Rectal Suppository 

Equipment
■ Suppository.
■ Water-soluble lubricant.
■ Toilet tissue.

Assessment
■ Assess the rectal area for hemorrhoids or irritation.
■ Be Smart! Before inserting the suppository, assess for contraindications, such as rectal surgery, rectal bleeding, or cardiac disease. Post-Procedure Reassessment
■ Assess for pain or burning during insertion of the medication.
■ Determine that the patient retained the suppository for the desired length of time (reinsertion may be required).
■ Assess for rectal pain, if indicated.

Key Points
■ Position the client in Sims’ position.
■ Lubricate the suppository.
■ Insert the suppository past the internal sphincter about 1/2 to 1 in. in infants and 1 to 3 in. in adults.
■ Be Safe! Never force the suppository during insertion.
■ Instruct the patient to stay on his side for 5 to 10 minutes and to retain (not expel) the suppository for about 30 minutes.

Documentation
■ Document:
■ Medication, time, dose, and route given.
■ Therapeutic and adverse drug effects, nursing interventions, and teaching.
■ Condition of anal tissue if abnormalities are present.
■ Any complaints of discomfort outside of the expected range.
■ Length of time the suppository was retained.
■ Record assessment data before, during, and after administering the suppository.
■ Record PRN medications in the nursing notes, including reason given and response.

Inserting the rectal suppository past the internal sphincter

1 comments:

Anonymous said...

It is much easier for both the patient and the nurse to use suppository applicators. It's more hygienic, comfortable, and effective than using your finger to administer the medication. This should be added to your article.

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