Question

An oil retention enema is administered to lubricate the rectum and the colon. The oil is absorbed by the feces, making them softer and easier to pass. For this type of enema to have optimal results, instruct patients to retain the enema for as long as possible, usually _________ hours

Answer 1

For optimal results, the oil retention enema should be retained for 1 to 3 hours to ensure adequate absorption by the feces and to ease the passage of stool.

Step-by-step explanation:

An oil retention enema is administered to lubricate the rectum and colon with the intent of making feces softer and easier to pass. This is especially helpful for patients experiencing constipation. For optimal results, it is recommended that patients retain the enema for 1 to 3 hours. This retention period allows the oil to be adequately absorbed by the feces in the colon. It should be noted that mucus in the colon also eases the passage of feces, and the process of absorption in the large intestine converts liquid chyme residue into semisolid feces, thereby facilitating smoother defecation.