Today is our topic of discussion General Instruction for Bowel Wash.
General Instruction for Bowel Wash
General Instructions
- A cleaning enema should be given one hour before the colon irrigation.
- The bladder should be emptied before colonic irrigations.
- The temperature of the solution is kept constant throughout the procedure.
- Allow only 200 to 300 mL of fluid to run into the rectum at a time.
- Make sure that the return flow is not blocked .
- Use a smooth and flexible rectal tube and lubricate it well.
- Prevent air entry into the intestines.
- Stop the procedure temporarily the patient complaints of pain.
- Listen to the complaints of the patient and should not ignore any discomfort however small they may be.
Methods Used for Bowel Irrigation
- Funnel and catheter
- Y connection and a rectal tube
- Two tube method.
Solution Used
- Tap water
- Cold water
- Normal saline
- Sodium bicarbonate 1 to 2%
- Antiseptic solution KNMO
- Boric solution 1 to 2%
- Tannic acid 1:100
- Alum 1:100.
Temperature of the Solution
- Cleaning purpose 104°F (40°C)
- Thermal effect 110 to 115 F (43.3 to 46°C)
- Reducing temperature 80 to 90°F (27 to 32°C) amount of solution used for bowl, irrigation is 2 to 3 liters or tillthe return flow is clear.

Preliminary Assessment
- Doctors order for any specific precautions.
- Diagnosis of the patient.
- General condition of the patient.
- Self-care ability of the patient.
- Mental status to follow instructions.
- Any contraindication.
- Need for any extra help.
- Articles available in the unit.
Preparation of the Patient and Environment
- Explain the sequence of the procedure.
- Arrange the articles at the bed side.
- Provide privacy.
- Place the Mackintosh and towel under the patient.
- Place the patient in left later position.
- Keep the bucket on a low stool to receive the out flow of fluid.
- Remove the back rest and extra pillows.
Equipment
- A clean tray containing.
- Funnel and tubing with glass connection.
- Mackintosh and towel.
- Rectal tube placed in a kidney tray.
- Vaseline Rag pieces in a container .
- Hot and cold water in jugs
- Prescribed solution in jug.
- Paper bag
- Bucket.
- Toilet tray if needed.
- Clean linen if needed .
- Bath thermometer.
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