Administering a Vaginal Suppository

Administering a Vaginal Suppository

Equipments:

• Medication Administration Record (MAR)
• Prescribed vaginal suppository
• Disposable applicator
• Non-sterile gloves
• Water soluble lubricant
• Tissue

Nursing Actions:

1. Identify any allergies or medical condition that contraindicate the use of drug
2. Obtain necessary equipment
3. Check the written order on MAR
4. Wash hands
5. Follow the five rights of medication administration
6. Instruct patient to void
7. Place patient in a dorsal recumbent position with knees flexed and hips rotated laterally on in a Sims’ position if the patient cannot maintain the dorsal recumbent position


8. Don non-sterile gloves
9. Explain briefly the procedure to the patient and provide privacy
10. Assess perineal area and inspect vaginal orifice. Note if there is any odor, discharge from vagina or any problems such as itching or discomfort
11. Cleanse the perineal area with soap and water if there is any secretion or discharge
12. Remove suppository from the foil wrapper and insert into applicator tip if any. Put a small amount of lubricant to rounded tip of the suppository.
13. With non-dominant hand, spread labial folds and insert the suppository into the vaginal canal at least 2 inches along the posterior wall of the vagina or as far as it will go. If you use an applicator, insert it as described above and depress plunger to release suppository
14. Wipe the perineum area with a clean dry tissue
15. Ask the patient to remain in bed for 15 minutes
16. Wash applicator under cool running water
17. Remove glove and wash hand
18. Record the drug’s name, dosage, rout, date and time of administration on MAR
19. Observe the patient in 15 minutes to ensure that the suppository did not slip out
20. Identify the effectiveness of the medication