Podcast
Questions and Answers
Why is it important to administer a suppository with the tapered end going in first?
Why is it important to administer a suppository with the tapered end going in first?
- To prevent damage to the rectal lining during insertion.
- To ensure the suppository is easily retrievable if it needs to be removed.
- To control the rate at which the medication is released.
- To aid in comfort and ease of insertion by following the natural contours of the rectum. (correct)
What does it signify if a suppository 'slips out' after insertion?
What does it signify if a suppository 'slips out' after insertion?
- The suppository has completely dissolved and its contents have been absorbed.
- The suppository is expired and needs to be replaced
- The suppository is the wrong size and a larger one should be used.
- The suppository was not inserted far enough past the anal sphincter. (correct)
Why should suppositories be stored in a cool, dry place and away from excessive heat?
Why should suppositories be stored in a cool, dry place and away from excessive heat?
- To maintain the suppository's shape and prevent it from melting, which could affect its usability and dosage. (correct)
- To prevent bacterial growth and contamination of the suppository.
- To ensure the suppository doesn't become too hard, making it difficult to insert.
- To enhance the suppository's effectiveness by preserving its active ingredients.
Why is it recommended to lay on your side with the bottom leg extended and the upper leg pushed towards your chest when self-administering a suppository?
Why is it recommended to lay on your side with the bottom leg extended and the upper leg pushed towards your chest when self-administering a suppository?
What is the primary reason for lubricating the tip of an enema nozzle before self-administration?
What is the primary reason for lubricating the tip of an enema nozzle before self-administration?
Why is it important to squeeze the enema solution slowly into the rectum?
Why is it important to squeeze the enema solution slowly into the rectum?
After self-administering an enema, you experience the urge to go to the bathroom immediately. What is the recommended course of action?
After self-administering an enema, you experience the urge to go to the bathroom immediately. What is the recommended course of action?
If an enema does not work after an hour of using the entire enema solution, what is the next recommended step?
If an enema does not work after an hour of using the entire enema solution, what is the next recommended step?
Why is it important to ensure suppositories are firm to the touch before administration?
Why is it important to ensure suppositories are firm to the touch before administration?
What is the purpose of bending your knees towards your chest when administering an enema?
What is the purpose of bending your knees towards your chest when administering an enema?
For what main purpose are glycerin suppositories primarily used?
For what main purpose are glycerin suppositories primarily used?
What should you do to a suppository that is not firm?
What should you do to a suppository that is not firm?
How far should the enema tip be inserted?
How far should the enema tip be inserted?
How long may glycerin suppositories take to work?
How long may glycerin suppositories take to work?
For self-administration, besides using a lubricant, what else can be used to lubricate the tip of the nozzle?
For self-administration, besides using a lubricant, what else can be used to lubricate the tip of the nozzle?
What is one of the positions to administer an enema?
What is one of the positions to administer an enema?
Other than lying on your back with knees toward chest, what is another position to administer an enema?
Other than lying on your back with knees toward chest, what is another position to administer an enema?
How should a suppository be cut in half?
How should a suppository be cut in half?
What is the role of the anal sphincter in relation to suppository administration?
What is the role of the anal sphincter in relation to suppository administration?
When should initial effects of glycerin suppositories be felt?
When should initial effects of glycerin suppositories be felt?
Flashcards
What is a suppository used for?
What is a suppository used for?
Self-administration, often using glycerin suppositories.
Suppository preparation
Suppository preparation
Firm to the touch; refrigerate briefly if too soft.
Suppository insertion position
Suppository insertion position
Lay on your side with bottom leg extended and upper leg towards chest.
Suppository insertion technique
Suppository insertion technique
Signup and view all the flashcards
Anal Sphincter
Anal Sphincter
Signup and view all the flashcards
When do suppositories start working?
When do suppositories start working?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Suppository storage
Suppository storage
Signup and view all the flashcards
What is an Enema?
What is an Enema?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Purpose of lubricating the enema nozzle
Purpose of lubricating the enema nozzle
Signup and view all the flashcards
Enema Warning
Enema Warning
Signup and view all the flashcards
When does an enema start working?
When does an enema start working?
Signup and view all the flashcards
What to do if enema doesn't work in 1 hour?
What to do if enema doesn't work in 1 hour?
Signup and view all the flashcards
Positions for enema administration
Positions for enema administration
Signup and view all the flashcards
Squeezing enema solution too quickly
Squeezing enema solution too quickly
Signup and view all the flashcards
Study Notes
Suppository (Self-Administration)
- Glycerin suppositories are the main focus
- Primarily used for constipation relief
Steps for Suppository Insertion
- Begin by washing hands with soap and water
- Ensure the suppository is in good condition
- Check that the suppository is firm to the touch by squeezing it
- If the suppository is not firm, refrigerate for a few minutes or rinse under cold water until it hardens
- Lie on your side with the bottom leg extended and the upper leg pushed towards your chest or stomach
- Administer the suppository with the tapered side going in first
- Tapered end is the "punta del supp"
- Dip the tip in cool water to ease administration
- Push the suppository into the rectum
- Hold the buttocks together
- Stay lying down for a few minutes to allow the suppository to melt and start working
What if the Suppository Slips Out?
- It means it was not pushed past the anal sphincter
Anal Sphincter
- A muscle that keeps the rectum closed
- Continue inserting the suppository until you get past the anal sphincter
Post-Insertion Instructions
- Wash hands with soap and water after inserting the suppository
Expected Onset
- Suppositories typically start working within 5 to 15 minutes, but it varies by product
- Glycerin suppositories may take 15-30 minutes to work
- Initial effects may be felt in about 5 minutes
- Contact a prescriber or pharmacist if one hour passes without effect
Suppository Storage
- Storage depends on the product
- For glycerin suppositories: check the bottle
- Store away from excessive heat and keep tightly closed in a cool, dry place
Where Not to Store
- Avoid storing in the kitchen or bathroom
Cutting a Suppository
- Cut it lengthwise
Enema (Self-Administration)
- Wash hands before starting
Enema Administration Steps
- Lie on your back with a towel underneath to catch spills
- Bend knees towards chest and stomach
- Remove the cap to reveal the nozzle
- For self-administration, lubricate the nozzle with vaseline or non-medicated ointment/cream
- Insert the tip 3 inches into the rectum
- Slowly squeeze the solution into the rectum
- Keep the solution inside for 5 minutes
Important Warning
- An immediate urge to go to the bathroom will occur; try to hold the solution for 10-15 minutes
- Ensure easy to the toilet in case an immediate need to use it
Expected Onset of Action
- The urge to go to the bathroom should start between 1-5 minutes after administration
- It may take up to 10-15 minutes for the enema to start working in some patients
What if it Doesn't Work?
- If the enema does not work after one hour or the entire solution has been used, contact your healthcare provider or pharmacist
Positions for Enema Administration
- Laid back with knees towards the chest and stomach
- Alternate position: put one foot on the toilet, with the other on the ground
Important
- Squeeze the solution slowly to prevent abdominal discomfort and cramping
Studying That Suits You
Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.
