Colorectal: Self-administration of a phosphate enema
This page explains how to administer your medication (enema) which is important for your procedure.
What is a phosphate enema?
An enema is fluid that is placed in the rectum through the anus (back passage) to clear the bowel. The phosphate enema that you have been given is a disposable single dose that will clean the section of your bowel that will be examined during the procedure.
Warning – Do not drink the liquid substance in the phosphate enema tube.
Why do I need to have a phosphate enema?
It is important to have a clear view of the lower part of your colon.
What are the alternatives?
Oral (by mouth) bowel preparation is an alternative, but these are usually used for when we need to empty the full length of your colon. Your Colorectal Consultant will have advised you what type of prep is best prior to your surgery.
Are there any side effects?
Rare side effects are:
- Rectal bleeding
- Blistering
- Burning
- Itching
If you are breastfeeding it is advised that breast milk is expressed and discarded for at least 24 hours after having the enema as the main ingredients contained in the enema may pass into the breast milk. www.gloshospitals.nhs.uk
When to use the enema
Use the enema about 60 minutes before leaving home for the operation. This will allow more than enough time for the enema to work, and travel will not be a problem. Give yourself plenty of time to relax. You should still use the enema even if you have recently passed a bowel motion.
If you are unable to give yourself the enema, if known please contact the secretary of your consultant, their contact details can be found in your appointment letter. Alternatively, if you need support, please contact the Colorectal admin team who will supply you with this information. Their contact details can be found at the end of this page.
How to use the phosphate enema
The enema can be used at room temperature, or you may wish to warm it slightly by placing the bottle in (tepid) water; this should be at body temperature.
- After washing your hands, lie on your left side with your knees pulled upwards towards your chest; draw your right leg up more than the left
- Remove the orange protective cap from the tube. Insert the tube gently into your anus (back passage) so that about three quarters of the tip is inside with the tip pointing towards your navel. Slowly squeeze the contents of the bottle into your back passage. You should stop if you feel resistance to the fluid and try angling the tube differently. If resistance remains, then stop. Forcing the fluid may cause an injury. Gently remove the tube from the back passage. It is quite normal to experience some leakage of the enema liquid from the rectum. It is also normal for some residue to remain in the bottle.
- Remain lying on your left side for 1 to 5 minutes until you feel a strong urge to open your bowels. Be prepared to expect frequent loose bowel movements within 5 minutes of having the enema. This is normal and shows that the medicine is working. Remain near a toilet until the effects have worn off.
- You may feel a little unsteady after the enema, so make sure that you do not get up too quickly to go to the toilet. Very rarely, some people feel faint when they try to get up. If this happens, lie back down until the feeling passes.
- Discard the used bottle in a plastic bag, place in the bin then wash your hands.
Drink only clear fluids, such as water (without colouring or flavouring), after you have administered the enema as this will help to satisfy your thirst until the procedure has been done.