The nurse instructs the patient that the health care provider has ordered an enema. The patient states, “An enema! I’m not constipated.” What are other possible reasons for the order? (Select all that apply.)
A. To administer a medication.
B. To prevent laxative misuse.
C. To increase fluid intake.
D. Preparation for a diagnostic procedure.
E. Preparation for surgery.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answers are A. To administer a medication, D. Preparation for a diagnostic procedure, and E. Preparation for surgery.
Enemas are commonly used for reasons other than just relieving constipation. Here’s an explanation for the options:
A. To administer a medication: Enemas can be used to deliver certain medications, especially when oral administration is not effective or possible. Medications can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream through the rectal mucosa. For example, corticosteroids, antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory drugs are sometimes administered via an enema to treat specific conditions like ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease.
D. Preparation for a diagnostic procedure: Enemas are often used to clear the bowel before diagnostic procedures like a colonoscopy or a lower gastrointestinal (GI) series. The bowel needs to be empty to ensure that the doctor can get clear images and effectively assess the colon.
E. Preparation for surgery: In some cases, especially before abdominal or pelvic surgery, an enema is ordered to cleanse the intestines. This reduces the risk of infection by clearing out waste material and minimizes the chances of complications during surgery.
The other options are not typically reasons for an enema order:
B. To prevent laxative misuse: While preventing misuse of laxatives is important, it would not be directly addressed through the use of an enema. Laxative misuse is more likely to be managed by adjusting a patient’s medication regimen or through education on proper bowel care.
C. To increase fluid intake: Enemas are not used to increase fluid intake. While certain enemas may contain fluids to hydrate the bowel, their primary purpose is to clear the bowels or deliver medication, not to increase overall fluid intake.
Thus, the primary reasons for an enema are related to clearing the bowel or administering medications, especially in preparation for diagnostic or surgical procedures.