Question

10. Differentiate the various types of enemas including indications for use, tonicity, and potential dangers for each.

Answer 1

Normal saline enema

• It exert the same osmotic pressure of fluid in interstitial space of bowel.
• It stimulates peristaltic movement.
• Excess amount of enema can cause dehydration.

Tap water enema

• It stimulates defecation
• It exerts low osmotic pressure than the interstitial fluid.
• Repeated tap water enemas causes water toxicity.
• If the body absorb large amount of water, it will lead to circulatory overload.

Soapsuds enema

• It stimulates the peristaltic movement by creating the effect of interstitial irritation.
• Use these enemas with caution in older adults and pregnant women, it might cause electrolyte imbalance and damage to intestinal mucosa.

Hypertonic solutions enema

• It promotes defecation by the distention of colon by filling with fluid.
• It is more suitable for patients who are unable to tolerate large amount of fluid.
• It is contraindicated in young infants and patients with dehydration.
• Excessive use of Hypertonic solution enema leads to dehydration.