Rectal Washout (Siphoning Enema) Procedure

(Colon irrigation or colonic flush)
- Also called enterolysis
- Is the process of introducing large amount of fluid into large bowel for flushing purpose and allow return or wash out fluid

Purpose
• To prepare the patient for x-ray exam and sigmoidoscopy
• To prepare the patient for rectum and color operation

Solution Used
• Normal saline
• Soda-bi-carbonate solution (to remove excess mucus)
• Tap water
• KMNO4 sol. 1:6000 for dysentery or weak tannic acid
• Tr. Asafetida in 1:1000 to relieve distention

Procedure
• Insert the tube like the cleansing enema
• The client lies on the bed with hips close to the side of the bed (client assumes a right side lying position for siphoning)
• Open the clamp and allow to run about 1,000 cc of fluid in the bowel, then siphon back into the bucket
• Carry on the procedure until the fluid return is clear

Note:
• The procedure should not take > 2 hrs
• Should be finished 1 hr before exam or x-ray – to give time for the large intestine to absorb the rest of the fluid
• Give cleansing enema ½ hr before the rectal wash out
• Allow the fluid to pass slowly Amount of solution
• 5-6 liters or until the wash out rectum fluid becomes clear