ADMINISTRATION OF RECTAL MEDICATION

REQUIREMENTS #

1. A tray containing the following:
   • Rectal suppository
   • Wipes/soap and water
   • Tissue
   • Disposable gloves
   • Mackintosh and dressing towel
   • Receiver for used items
2. Treatment Chart (Manual or Electronic)

STEPS #

1. Check for the right patient, right medication, right time, right dose against doctor’s order and treatment chart (manual or electronic) as well as the expiry date
2. Establish rapport (Refer to steps)
3. Explain procedure
4. Ensure patient’s right to know/consent and to refuse medication
5. Perform hand hygiene
6. Send tray to bedside
7. Provide privacy
8. Assist patient to a left lateral or left Sim’s position, with the upper leg flexed
9. Protect bed with mackintosh and dressing towel at the buttocks
10. Fold back the top bedclothes to expose the buttocks
11. Perform hand hygiene and wear gloves
12. Clean anal area with wipes/soap, water and dry
13. Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene
14. Remove medication, checks label and compares with patient’s treatment chart (manual or electronic)
15. Wear gloves, unwraps the suppository
16. Encourage the patient to relax by breathing through the mouth
17. Insert the suppository gently into the rectum using the gloved index finger and press the patient’s buttocks together for few minutes
18. Ask the patient to squeeze the buttock together and remain in the left lateral or supine position for at least ten (10) – fifteen (15) minutes
19. Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene
20. Dispose off used items and decontaminate tray
21. Document procedure on treatment chart (manual or electronic) and nurses notes (manual/electronic)
22. Assess patient after thirty (30) minutes for therapeutic effects
23. Assist patient into a desirable position