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Constipation - Management
How can I prevent the adverse effects of rectal laxatives?
- Suppositories must be placed alongside the bowel wall so that body heat causes them to dissolve and distribute around the rectum [Kyle, 2007].
- Suppositories should be moistened before use to aid insertion.
- Correct administration of enemas is important. Incorrect administration can injure the bowel wall, and occasionally even cause necrosis. After initial insertion of the enema nozzle, angle it towards the back before advancing further. Do not force insertion or administration [Bowers, 2006].
- There have also been reports of hyperphosphataemia in people with chronic renal impairment following administration of phosphate enemas [Bowers, 2006].
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