Enemas

Definition: An enema is when a tube is inserted in
the rectum and fluid is inserted in the colon.

Enemas are given to relieve constipation.  Occasionally
enemas are used to give medical therapy.

Fleets enemas are previously prepared enema solutions
in plastic bottles with a tube like tip.  With the patient
lying on  their stomach or their side, the fleets enema tip
is inserted in the rectum and the bottle is squeezed and
the contents goes into the colon.  This usually causes
enough stimulation to create a bowel movement.

Standard enemas have a bag or a bucket with a tube and
a rectal catheter insert.  The bag or bucket is filled
with water, water and soap, water and mineral oil or
some other fluids.  With the patient lying on their
side, the rectal catheter is inserted in the rectum
and the fluid is allowed to flow into the colon.
This method can give much more fluid and it can fill
the colon.  When the patient has the feeling to
defecate (have a bowel movement) then the catheter
is removed and the person goes to the toilet to
relieve themselves.  For a complete cleansing
of the bowel, one may have to use the enema kit and
fill the bag 5 or more times.

There is some warning in that inserting enema fluid and
relieving oneselves many times can cause the body to
have an electrolyte imbalance.