There are times when a person has a health problem that requires a medicine to be taken by way of the rectum. A rectal suppository is a medicine mixed with a wax-like substance to form a semi-solid, bullet-shaped form that melts after being placed into the rectum. Rectal suppositories are very safe, because they cause little irritation to the walls of the rectum and have few side effects.
What Conditions Might Require a Rectal Suppository?
Giving a rectal suppository is easy, but it must be done correctly. Improper placement often results in the person passing the medicine out of the rectum before it has time to dissolve and take effect. Whenever giving medicine to someone, be sure you know the purpose of the medicine, the correct dose, and the expected effects.
For another reference, see our lesson on Giving Medicines Safely.
Giving a rectal suppository is easy, but it must be done correctly. Improper placement often results in the person passing the medicine out of the rectum before it has time to dissolve and take effect.