Question

A home care nurse observes the spouse of a client inserting a rectal suppository into the client. Which behavior indicates that the nurse must provide further teaching about suppository administration?

a. Lubricates the tip of the suppository
b. Inserts the suppository while wearing a glove
c. Inserts the suppository while the client bears down
d. Places the suppository a finger length into the rectum

Answer 1

d. Places the suppository a finger length into the rectum. The nurse needs to provide further teaching about suppository administration when the suppository is placed too far into the rectum.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct answer is d. Places the suppository a finger length into the rectum. When administering a rectal suppository, it is important to insert it only about 1 inch into the rectum for it to be effective. Inserting it further can cause discomfort and potential injury. The other behaviors listed: a. lubricating the tip of the suppository, b. wearing a glove, and c. having the client bear down are all correct and appropriate steps in the administration of a rectal suppository.