Standard Number:
Effective Date:
Interprofessional Practice & Clinical Standards
Policy Guideline Protocol X Procedure Plan of Care
Professional Registered Nurse / Licensed Practical nurse
Responsible:
Title: Procedure for Insertion of Rectal Suppository
Indications: A nursing assessment has determined the presence of feces that may be eliminated with the
application of a rectal stimulant and lubrication of bowel wall.
Care Outcomes: Evacuation of rectal contents by (1) stimulating the inner surface of the rectal lining, creating an
urge to empty the bowel, and (2) lubricating and coating the stool for easier evacuation.
Equipment
1. a suppository as ordered
2. disposable gloves
3. lubricant
4. bed pan, commode
5. protective pad
The need for a suppository is assessed by an RN or LPN.
The use of a suppository is documented on the Medication
Administration Record by an RN or LPN.
The results of a suppository are documented on the Bowel
Record or, if indicated, in the Progress Notes.
Procedure - Steps Key Points
1. Wash hands and take equipment to bedside.
2. Provide privacy and explain to the resident /patient To alleviate anxiety.
what you are going to do.
3. Raise the bed to a comfortable working position. To protect back.
4. Position the resident/patient or ask the resident to turn To facilitate insertion.
on left side with right knee drawn up.
5. Put on disposable glove, lubricate forefinger and To prevent trauma on insertion.
suppository.
Author(s): Seniors Health CNS/CRN
Group
Issuing Authority: Seniors Health Nursing
Practice Committee
Date last reviewed /revised: August 2003 Page 1 of 2
Title: e6eac20c-523f-4470-bf2d-f6fea5535ec1.doc Page 2 of 2
Equipment
6. Spread the buttocks with one hand and slowly, with Position the suppository so it is
the other hand, gently insert the suppository with a touching the bowel wall and not
rotating motion, as far as your lubricated index finger inserted into stool.
will reach (3-5 cm.).
7. Reposition the resident and encourage to retain the
suppository for as long as possible (approx. 15-20
minutes).
8. Give resident call bell and instruct them to call when Check resident frequently if unable
urge to move bowels is felt. to indicate needs.
9. Put on commode, bed pan, or pad as necessary.
10. Monitor resident every few minutes.
11. After bowel movement, assist resident with hygiene
and leave him/her clean and comfortable.
12. Record results of suppository on Bowel Record and
Progress Notes, if necessary.
References:
Perry, A & Potter, P (2002). Clinical Nursing Skills and Techniques (5th ed.). Mosby: St. Louis.
Smith, S. & Duell, D (1992). Clinical Nursing Skills (3rd ed.) Appleton & Lange: Connecticut