Rectal Suppository Administration

Medical Equipments:

• Medication Administration Record (MAR)
• Prescribed Rectal suppository
• Water Soluble Lubricant (K-Y Jelly)
• Non-sterile Gloves
• Tissue
• Bedpan (as optional)

Nursing Procedures:

1. Identify any allergies that patient has
2. Gather necessary equipments
3. Determine the written order on MAR
4. Wash your hands
5. Check the patient’s identification
6. As patient if she or he wants to void
7. Explain the procedure to the patient briefly
8. Don non sterile gloves
9. Place patient in the Sim’s left lateral position with the upper leg flexed
10. Open the package of lubricant and remove the foil wrapper from the suppository
11. Apply a small amount of lubricant to the smooth rounded end of the suppository
12. Lubricate the gloved index finger
13. Ask the patient to breathe through the mouth
14. Insert the suppository into the rectal canal beyond the internal sphincter about 4 inches for an adult and 2 inches for a child
15. Avoid inserting the suppository into feces
16. Withdraw the finger and wipe the anal area with tissue
17. Ask patient to remain in bed for 15 minutes and to resist urge to defecate
18. Remove glove and wash hand
19. Record the name of the drug, dosage, route, and time of administration on MAR
20. Observe the effectiveness of medication