How to Use a Single Bardex Nozzle for Enemas

Nurses must adapt and overcome in emergency situations.

Enemas are a relatively noninvasive way to treat severe constipation. Enemas that are administered in hospitals usually come with their own tubing and nozzle. However, in some emergency situations, medical supplies may not be able to be shipped to the hospital. In a situation like this, a nurse must use other equipment to administer the enema. Single bardex nozzles, which are commonly used when inserting a foley catheter, are one possible alternative to traditional enema nozzles.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Single bardex nozzle
• Bardex tubing
• Enema bag
• Enema solution
• Tape
• Enema clamp

1. Hang the empty enema bag on an IV pole. Ensure that the enema bag is raised above the waist of the patient.

2. Attach the bardex tubing to the opening at the bottom of the enema bag. Use a length of tubing that is at least 3 feet long. Wrap some tape around the bardex tubing and enema bag to keep the tubing in place.

3. Attach the single bardex nozzle to the bardex tubing. Clamp the bardex tubing with the enema clamp while you empty the enema solution into the enema bag.

4. Administer the enema to the patient just as if you were using an enema nozzle. Remember to thoroughly lubricate the single bardex nozzle before inserting it into the patient's anus to avoid injury and discomfort. Remove the clamp on the bardex tubing once the single bardex nozzle and tubing are in place.

References

• "Adult Health Nursing"; S. Christenson; 2010
• "Foundations of Nursing"; Barbara Lauritsen Christensen and Elaine Oden Kockrou; 2006