What it means
A solid form of medicine made to be put into a body opening, where body heat melts it so the drug is released and absorbed. Rectal suppositories are used for constipation (such as bisacodyl), fever (acetaminophenuh-see-tuh-MIN-uh-fenA drug that relieves mild to moderate pain and lowers fever.Full entry ), nausea and seizures, and when a client cannot take medicine by mouth. Vaginal suppositories treat local problems such as yeast infections.
For the nurse
For a rectal suppository, place the client on the left side (Sims' position), lubricate it, and insert it tapered end first against the wall of the rectum, about 3 to 4 inches for an adult and 1 to 2 inches for a child. Ask the client to hold it in for the time the label gives.
At a glance
| Also written | suppositories |
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Related terms
rectal
Relating to the rectum, the last part of the large intestine; also, given or measured through the rectum.
Sims position
A side-lying position on the left side with the upper leg bent and the lower arm behind the body.