How to Set Up a Double-Contrast Barium Enema

Barium enemas are used for a number of reasons. The most common reason for this procedure is to check for colorectal cancer. In order for the test to be accurately performed, the patient must be thoroughly educated on the importance of the procedure and how critical it is to follow every step of the process. As a health care worker, it may be your responsibility to prepare the patient for this important procedure. Test results are most accurate when the patient is well prepared, informed and instructed.

Things You'll Need

• Informative brochures

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Instructions

• 1

  Review and document the patient's current medical problems, past medical history, allergies and the date of any previous barium tests.

• 2

  Instruct the patient to start a clear liquid diet three days prior to the test, and to drink plenty of non-carbonated liquids one day before the test. These measures will prepare the patient for the large intestinal cleansing required for clearer interpretation of the barium x-ray.

• 3

  Inform the patient that after all the intake of liquid he should take a series of laxatives, prescribed by the doctor, to flush any remaining liquid and fecal matter out of the colon.

• 4

  Ask the patient to take any additional cleansing enemas and suppositories prescribed by the doctor on the morning of the procedure.

• 5

  Give the patient a detailed printout of the information you just discussed, along with the assigned radiology department's location and contact phone number.

• 6

  Allow the patient to ask questions; assure them that someone is always available to speak with them about any other concerns that they may have.