Abstract
The effectiveness and side effects of three types of enema solutions were compared in healthy subjects. Using a repeated-measures, double-blind design, the three different enemas (soapsuds, tap water, and polyethylene glycol-electrolyte solution) were given at 1-week intervals to 24 healthy volunteers. Soapsuds and tap water enemas produced significantly greater returns than polyethylene glycol electrolyte solution (PEG-ES) and were also more uncomfortable. Rectal biopsies showed surface epithelium loss after soapsuds and tap water but not after PEG-ES enemas. Before recommending changes in nursing practice, further research is needed to determine the mechanism for the surface epithelium damage and to determine if this damage produces a stronger defecation stimulus and discomfort.
Publication types
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Clinical Trial
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Comparative Study
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Randomized Controlled Trial
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Abdominal Pain / chemically induced
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Abdominal Pain / diagnosis
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Adult
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Aged
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Biopsy
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Defecation / drug effects
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Double-Blind Method
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Electrolytes / adverse effects
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Electrolytes / therapeutic use*
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Enema / adverse effects
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Enema / methods*
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Female
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Humans
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Male
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Middle Aged
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Polyethylene Glycols / adverse effects
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Polyethylene Glycols / therapeutic use*
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Proctoscopy
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Rectum / drug effects
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Rectum / pathology
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Safety*
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Soaps / adverse effects
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Soaps / therapeutic use*
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Solutions
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Surface-Active Agents / adverse effects
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Surface-Active Agents / therapeutic use*
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Treatment Outcome
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Water* / adverse effects
Substances
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Electrolytes
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Soaps
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Solutions
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Surface-Active Agents
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Water
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Polyethylene Glycols