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ADMINISTERING RECTAL MEDICATIONS

IMPLEMENTATION
Preparation
1. Check the MAR.
Check the MAR for the drug
name, strength, and
prescribed frequency.
Check client allergy status.
If the MAR is unclear or
pertinent information is
missing, compare it with the
most recent primary care
providers written order.
Report any discrepancies to
the charge nurse or primary
care provider, as agency
policy dictates.
2. Know the reason why the client
is receiving the medication, the
drug classification,
contraindications, usual dose
range, side effects, and nursing
considerations for administering
and evaluating the intended
outcomes of the medication.
Performance
3. Compare the label on the
medication container with the
medication record and check the
expiration date.
4. If necessary, calculate the
medication dosage.
5. Explain to the client what you
are going to do, why it is
necessary, and how she can
participate. Explain to the client
that a rectal suppository is
normally a painless procedure,
and in fact may bring relief from
itching and burning if an
infection is present. Many people
feel embarrassed about this
procedure, and some may prefer
to perform the procedure
themselves if instruction is
provided. Discuss how the
results will be used in planning
further care or treatments.
6. Perform hand hygiene and
observe other appropriate

infection prevention procedures.


7. Provide for client privacy.
8. Prepare the client.
Prior to performing the
procedure, introduce self and
verify the clients identity
using agency protocol.
Rationale: This ensures that
the right client receives the
right medication.
9. Assist the client to a left lateral
or left Sims position, with the
upper leg flexed.
10. Fold back the top bedclothes to
expose the buttocks.
11. Put a glove on the hand used to
insert the suppository.
12. Unwrap the suppository and
lubricate the smooth rounded
end, or see the manufacturers
instructions. The rounded end is
usually inserted first and
lubricant reduces irritation of the
mucosa.
13. Lubricate the gloved index
finger.
14. Encourage the client to relax by
breathing through the mouth.
This usually relaxes the external
anal sphincter.
15. Insert the suppository gently into
the anal canal, rounded end first
(or according to manufacturers
instructions), along the rectal
wall using the gloved index
finger. For an adult, insert the
suppository beyond the internal
sphincter (i.e., 10 cm [4 in.]).
16. Avoid embedding the
suppository in feces in order for
the suppository to be absorbed
effectively.
17. Press the clients buttocks
together for a few minutes.
18. Ask the client to remain in the
left lateral or supine position for
at least 5 minutes to help retain
the suppository. The suppository
should be retained for varying
lengths of time according to the
manufacturers instructions.
INFANTS/CHILDREN

Obtain assistance to immobilize an


infant or young child. This
prevents accidental injury due to
sudden movement during the
procedure.
For a child under 3 years of age,
the nurse should use the gloved
fifth finger for insertion. After this
age, the index finger can usually
be used.
For a child or infant, insert a
suppository 5 cm (2 in.) or less.

Other comments:
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Name of Student

Assessors Name

Signature
Clinical Instructor
Position

Date

Signature

Date

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