Why is this procedure done?
Your doctor has ordered a drug for you. Your rectum is the best place to give this drug. These drugs come as suppositories or ointments. Another name for your rectum is your anus. There are a lot of blood vessels in this part of your body. This makes it easy to absorb the drug here. Your doctor will order this form of drug if you are not able to keep fluids down. ‚
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What will the results be?
Your rectum will absorb the suppository or ointment for your body to use. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Make sure you have all of the items that you will need. Place them on a clean surface nearby.
- Suppository or ointment
- Water-based jelly
- Applicator if needed
- A tissue or cloth
- Check the drug.
- Read the label to make sure that you have the correct drug.
- Make sure you have the right dose. Check the amount of drug against what the doctor ordered.
- Check the expiration date. Do not use it if it is expired.
- Get the drug ready to give.
- Some drugs come in a prefilled applicator.
- For others, you must fill the applicator with the cream or ointment.
- You may need to unwrap the suppository.
- Wash your hands with warm, soapy water before you begin. Some people prefer to use a glove, plastic wrap, or finger cot to protect their finger when using a suppository or ointment.
What happens during the procedure?
- Lie down on your side.
- If you are right handed, lie on your left side.
- If you are left handed, lie on your right side.
- Raise your top knee toward your chin.
Suppository ‚
- Apply a small amount of water-based jelly on the suppository.
- Gently push the pointed end of the suppository into your rectum. For children, this is about1/2 to 1 inch. For adults, this is about 1 inch.
- If possible, wait 10 to 15 minutes before getting up and moving around.
Ointment ‚
- Around the rectum
- Place a small amount on your fingertip.
- Gently rub ointment into skin around your rectum.
- In the rectum
- Apply a small amount of water-based jelly on the applicator.
- Gently insert the applicator into your rectum.
- Slowly push the plunger or squeeze the tube until the drug is given.
- Take the applicator out of the rectum.
What happens after the procedure?
- Wash the applicator if it is reusable. It may come in 2 parts. Use warm soapy water.
- Wash your hands to remove any drug that may be on them.
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What problems could happen?
Mild itching ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
You are not feeling better in 2 to 3 days or you are feeling worse ‚
Helpful tips
- If the suppository is soft, try placing it in the refrigerator for about 15 to 20 minutes. You may also run cold water over it while it is still in the wrapper.
- You may want to use a small amount of a water-based lubricant like KY Jelly to make putting the suppository in easier. You can also get the tip of the suppository wet with a few drops of cool water.
- If suppository is to help ease hard stools, give about 30 minutes before a meal. If the suppository is another type of drug, give between meals.
Where can I learn more?
American Society of Health-System Pharmacists ‚
http://www.safemedication.com/safemed/MedicationTipsTools/HowtoAdminister/HowtoUseRectalSuppositoriesProperly ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚