Glycerin enema is an example of?

Appeared in: IGNOU Post B. SC. Nursing entrance -2021

Explanation

A glycerin enema is a type of purgative (or evacuant) enema.
Glycerin is a hypertonic agent that works via an osmotic effect, drawing water into the colon.
This influx of water distends the bowel and stimulates strong peristalsis, leading to rapid defecation.
Its primary purpose is to empty the colon, which defines it as a purgative enema.

Option A: Astringent enemas are used to contract tissues, control bleeding, or reduce inflammation in the bowel mucosa. Glycerin does not have an astringent effect.
Option C: Emollient enemas use oily substances to lubricate and soften hard, dry stool, making it easier to pass. While glycerin softens stool, its primary mechanism is osmotic action, not lubrication.
Option D: Retention enemas are designed to be held in the bowel for an extended period (e.g., 30 minutes or more) for medication absorption or to soften stool over time. A glycerin enema is intended for rapid evacuation, not retention.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Classification of Enemas as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must understand the different types of enemas to administer the correct treatment based on the patient's condition (e.g., constipation, fecal impaction, preparation for surgery).
Administering a hypertonic enema like glycerin to a dehydrated patient is contraindicated as it can worsen dehydration by pulling more fluid into the bowel.
What if? If a patient had a severe fecal impaction with very hard stool, a nurse might first administer an oil-retention (emollient) enema to soften the mass, followed later by a purgative enema like glycerin or soapsuds to stimulate evacuation.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core subject of the question: 'Glycerin enema'.
The question asks for its classification ('is an example of?'). This requires recalling the different types of enemas and their purposes.
Think about the mechanism of action of glycerin. It is known to cause rapid bowel movement.
Evaluate the options: 'Astringent' (contracts tissue), 'Purgative' (causes evacuation), 'Emollient' (softens/lubricates), 'Retention' (meant to be held).
Match the action of glycerin (rapid evacuation) with the correct classification. 'Purgative' directly describes this function.
Therefore, select the option that aligns with the primary purpose of inducing defecation.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QnuxsasjVO_x3s3e9rL75z

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Potter Perry 12e Part 6 p. 41-43

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 627-629

Practise the full IGNOU Post B. SC. Nursing entrance -2021

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.