Question

Some patients having a procedure or surgery involving the bowel have an order for an enema to be administered "until clear." This directs you to repeat the enema until the patient passes fluid that is clear of fecal matter. To reduce the risk of fluid or electrolyte imbalances, do not administer more than ________

Answer 1

An enema 'until clear' should be administered within medical guidelines to prevent fluid or electrolyte imbalances, and the process involves repeating the enema until no feces are in the expelled fluid. Water plays a crucial role in feces formation, and the intestines absorb a significant amount of ingested water.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is ordered to have an enema "until clear", this procedure is intended to ensure the bowel is clean. The enema must be repeated until the fluid expelled is free of fecal matter. To reduce the risk of fluid or electrolyte imbalances, the number of enemas should not exceed a certain limit. It is crucial for the safety and health of the patient to adhere to medical guidelines when administering enemas.

In the intestines, water is a key component in the digestion and absorption process. About 90 percent of ingested water is absorbed by the small intestine, and the large intestine absorbs most of the remaining water. This water absorption is significant for the conversion of liquid chyme residue into semisolid feces. Daily, around 500 mL (17 ounces) of food residue enters the cecum, and approximately 150 mL (5 ounces) become feces. Excessively repeating enemas can disrupt this natural balance and could lead to potential complications.