An oil retention enema is prescribed for a hospitalized client. The practical nurse (PN) should administer the enema solution at which temperature?
A.
The solution should approximate the client’s body temperature (98°F or 36°C).
B.
The temperature of the enema is unrelated to the enema’s effectiveness.
C.
The solution temperature should be determined by the client’s comfort level.
D.
The temperature should be higher (110°F or 43°C) than the client’s body temperature.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. The solution should approximate the client’s body temperature (98°F or 36°C).
An oil retention enema is used to lubricate the rectum and colon, softening the stool to promote a gentle bowel movement. The temperature of the enema solution plays a crucial role in ensuring the client’s comfort and the effectiveness of the procedure.
Explanation:
- Body Temperature (98°F or 36°C): Administering an oil retention enema at or near body temperature is recommended because it helps avoid discomfort and cramping that could occur if the solution is too hot or too cold. Enema solutions that are too cold can cause shock to the bowel, leading to cramping and discomfort, while solutions that are too hot can cause damage to the delicate tissues of the rectum and colon. A temperature of 98°F (36°C) closely matches the body’s natural temperature, allowing the solution to be retained comfortably for the required period.
- Effectiveness: Maintaining the correct temperature enhances the effectiveness of the oil retention enema. A solution at body temperature ensures that the oil can penetrate and lubricate the fecal matter, softening it without causing spasm of the bowel muscles. This allows for a smoother evacuation of stool after the enema is retained for the prescribed time, typically 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Patient Comfort: Comfort is a primary consideration when administering enemas, particularly oil retention enemas, where the goal is to retain the solution for an extended period. A solution at body temperature feels neutral to the client and does not trigger discomfort or the urgency to evacuate prematurely.
- Avoidance of Tissue Damage: If the enema solution is too hot (as suggested in option D), it can cause thermal injury to the rectal mucosa, which is highly sensitive. Administering a solution at higher than body temperature increases the risk of burns or irritation, making this an inappropriate option.
In summary, the most effective and comfortable approach is to administer the enema at or near body temperature (98°F or 36°C). This supports both client safety and the successful outcome of the procedure.