How to Give a Colonic

If you've ever had constipation, you know how uncomfortable it can be. Enemas can help clean out your system, but they only reach the lower part of the colon and aren't as thorough as other constipation treatments. One alternative to enemas is the colonic, a simple procedure done in a clinic or hospital. The basic procedure of how to give one is not difficult.

Things You'll Need

• Health history forms
• Gown for client
• Procedure table
• Sink and hand soap
• Latex or latex alternative sterile gloves
• Lubricating gel
• Hydrotherapy machine with disposable speculum
• Tissues or toilet paper
• Restroom facility

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Instructions

Preparation

• 1

  Obtain a complete health history from the patient by having him complete the patient history form the clinic or hospital uses.

• 2

  Review the patient history form with the patient and discuss how the colonic works if the patient is not already familiar with the procedure or equipment.

• 3

  Ask the patient to change into a provided clinic or hospital gown.

• 4

  Have the client recline, face up, on the procedure table.

• 5

  Wash your hands for a minimum of 60 seconds.

• 6

  Put on a pair of sterile gloves.

The Procedure

• 7

  Lubricate the speculum with the medical gel.

• 8

  Request that the patient take a deep breath and slowly exhale.

• 9

  Slowly insert the disposable speculum into the patient's anus as the patient exhales.

• 10

  Slowly allow warm water to be introduced into the colon.

• 11

  Note the color and texture of the fecal matter.

• 12

  Massage the lower abdomen of the patient gently to facilitate peristalsis in the colon if needed.

Post Procedure

• 13

  Remove the speculum and throw it in a proper disposal receptacle.

• 14

  Offer the patient tissues or toilet paper to handle any anal leakage after the speculum removal.

• 15

  Allow the client to use the restroom to pass any excess water or stool.