Ready to use enema (1348)
Key points below
What is an enema?
An enema helps get stool (poop) out of the rectum. An enema puts liquid into the rectum. This makes it easier for your child to poop.
What supplies are needed?
- Enema. Your child’s healthcare provider will tell you what kind and size to get.
- Your child’s potty-chair or the toilet should be close by.
- If you'd like: A towel for your child to lay on in case there is leakage of enema fluid or poop.
Follow these steps
- Warm the enema. Put enema bottle in a bowl of warm water. Do not use the microwave to warm it.
- Get your supplies. Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Help your child into one of the positions shown in Figures 1 or 2.
4. Take the cap off the enema tip.
5. Gently put the tip of the enema into the child’s rectum.
6. Gently squeeze the enema container to get all the liquid into your child’s rectum. Pull the tip out of the rectum. Don’t worry if a small amount of liquid is still in the container.
7. Have your child hold the liquid inside for 3 to 5 minutes. Your child should lay flat during this time. If they stand up too soon the liquid will leak out without helping them to pass the poop at all. If your child is young, gently hold the buttocks together for 10 to 15 seconds to keep the liquid inside.
8. Get your child to the toilet or potty-chair. Very young children may do better to let the liquid and poop go into a diaper.
9. Help your child to have better results from their enema by teaching them to squat or holding them in a squatting position. It may help to put a stool under their feet while they are sitting on the toilet.
10. Praise your child for cooperating with receiving the enema.
11. Throw away all of the supplies.
12. Wash your hands well with soap and water.
13. Write down how the poop looked and how much there was.
How will an enema feel to my child?
Getting an enema is not painful. Your child may feel some cramping as the enema begins to work and the poop in the colon starts to move. You can help your child to relax by encouraging them to breathe deeply and also to push. Reassure your child that they will feel much better when all the poop gets out.
If your child is sensitive to latex, be sure the supplies you use are latex-free!