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ADMINISTERING RECTAL MEDICATIONS

IMPLEMENTATIONPreparation

1. Check the MAR.

Check the MAR for the drugname, strength, andprescribed frequency.

Check client allergy status. If the MAR is unclear or

pertinent information ismissing, compare it ith the

most recent primary carepro!ider"s ritten order.

Report any discrepancies tothe charge nurse or primary

care pro!ider, as agencypolicy dictates.

#. $no the reason hy the clientis recei!ing the medication, the

drug classi%cation,contraindications, usual dose

range, side e&ects, and nursingconsiderations for administering

and e!aluating the intendedoutcomes of the medication.

Performance'. Compare the label on the

medication container ith themedication record and check the

e(piration date.). If necessary, calculate the

medication dosage.*. +(plain to the client hat you

are going to do, hy it isnecessary, and ho she can

participate. +(plain to the clientthat a rectal suppository is

normally a painless procedure,and in fact may bring relief from

itching and burning if aninfection is present. Many people

feel embarrassed about thisprocedure, and some may prefer

to perform the procedurethemsel!es if instruction is

pro!ided. iscuss ho theresults ill be used in planning

further care or treatments.-. erform hand hygiene and

obser!e other appropriate

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infection pre!ention procedures./. ro!ide for client pri!acy.0. repare the client.

rior to performing theprocedure, introduce self and

!erify the client"s identity

using agency protocol.Rationale This ensures thatthe right client receives the

right medication.2. Assist the client to a left lateral

or left 3ims" position, ith theupper leg 4e(ed.

15. 6old back the top bedclothes toe(pose the buttocks.

11. ut a glo!e on the hand used toinsert the suppository.

1#. 7nrap the suppository and

lubricate the smooth roundedend, or see the manufacturer"sinstructions. 8he rounded end is

usually inserted %rst andlubricant reduces irritation of the

mucosa.1'. 9ubricate the glo!ed inde(

%nger.1). +ncourage the client to rela( by

breathing through the mouth.8his usually rela(es the e(ternal

anal sphincter.1*. Insert the suppository gently into

the anal canal, rounded end %rst:or according to manufacturer"s

instructions;, along the rectalall using the glo!ed inde(

%nger. 6or an adult, insert thesuppository beyond the internal

sphincter :i.e., 15 cm 6A>83?C@I9R+>

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btain assistance to immobiliBe an

infant or young child. 8hispre!ents accidental inury due to

sudden mo!ement during theprocedure.

6or a child under ' years of age,

the nurse should use the glo!ed

%fth %nger for insertion. After thisage, the inde( %nger can usuallybe used.

6or a child or infant, insert asuppository * cm :# in.; or less.

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