Word parts
What it means
Describes anything to do with the rectumREK-tumThe last part of the large intestine, between the colon and the anus, where stool is held until it leaves the body.Full entry . A rectal temperature is taken with a thermometer placed a short way into the rectum, and rectal drugs are given as suppositories or enemas. Rectal bleeding is blood passed from the bottom, bright red or dark.
For the nurse
Do not take rectal temperatures or give rectal drugs to clients with a very low white blood cell or platelet count, after rectal surgery, or with heart conditions that a slow heart rate could worsen, because the rectum can trigger a vagal response. Place the client on the left side for rectal suppositories and enemas.
In a chart
"Rectal temperature 38.9°C (102°F) in the 9-month-old; provider notified."
At a glance
| Spanish | rectal |
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