Question

The nurse is administering a prescribed hypertonic saline solution to a client with constipation. Which is a function of hypertonic saline enema?

a) Stimulant to promote bowel evacuation.
b) Soothing agent to reduce inflammation.
c) Lubricant to ease stool passage.
d) Anti-inflammatory agent for pain relief.

Answer 1

A hypertonic saline enema is used as a stimulant to promote bowel evacuation by drawing water into the colon, softening the stool, and increasing bowel activity to relieve constipation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The function of a hypertonic saline enema, which is a solution with higher salt concentration than the fluid inside body cells, is to act as a stimulant to promote bowel evacuation. When administered, the hypertonic saline enema draws water into the colon, which softens the stool and increases bowel activity, leading to bowel movements. It is not primarily a soothing agent, a lubricant, or an anti-inflammatory agent, but rather it helps alleviate constipation by encouraging the evacuation of stools.