s the singular). They are
named according to their purpose.

1. Simple laxative or purgative enemata.

2. Nutritive enemata for the purpose of nourishment.

3. Sedative enemata for local or systemic quieting effects.

4. Astringent enemata to check bleeding and diarrhea, like hot water, ice
water, solution of alum or nitrate of silver.

5. Emollient (soothing) enemata for soothing irritated and painful mucous
membrane; starch and drugs are also used.

6. Antispasmodic enemata to relieve flatulence such as the turpentine
enemata.

7. Anthelmintic (against worms) for destroying worms; salt, turpentine and
quassia are used.

8. Antiseptic or germicidal enemata used in dysentery.

9. Stimulating enemata, like hot water, hot strong coffee, hot whisky and
water, salt water.

10. To relieve thirst, water one pint or normal salt solution (one dram to
a pint of water) and injected high up.

[NURSING DEPARTMENT 639]

ENEMATA are given either high or low.

A high enemas thrown high up into the bowel.

A low enema is injected into the rectum only, through a hard rubber tip to
a syringe.

Directions.--There are many ways of giving a simple enema.

Position.--A good way is to place an adult patient on his left side, with
the knees bent up close. Protect the bed with a rubber sheet and towel
under the patient. The basin of water can be placed on the rubber sheet
and the enema given under cover.

Amount.--An adult person will take one to four pints. A child one-half to
one pint. For an infant about two ounces will do.

What material? A simple enema can be made with good castile soap or good
brown soap and water, temperature about 95 degrees F. When ready for use
make into a good suds.

Syringe.--Use a bulb syringe, see that the syringe is filled full to the
nozzle before the nozzle is put into the bowel. Any air left in the
syringe will pass into the bowel and cause pain. Oil the nozzle with
vaselin or sweet oil and then gently put the nozzle into the rectum. It is
better to introduce an oiled finger through the sphincter muscle and pass
the nozzle along the finger and gently into the bowel. It should be in the
bowel two or three inches. Do not attempt to force the nozzle through any
obstruction. Introduce the water slowly in a gentle and steady stream. The
main object is to distend the rectum by means of the water, thereby
producing reflex stimulation. The worm-like movement of the bowels
results, thus bring