The enema given to relieve gaseous distention is:

Appeared in: HP CHO -9 October 2022

Explanation

A carminative enema is specifically designed to provide relief from gaseous distention.
It works by stimulating the peristalsis of the colon, which helps in the expulsion of flatus (gas).
Common solutions used for carminative enemas include milk and molasses or a magnesium sulfate-glycerin-water (MGW) mixture.
This type of enema directly addresses the accumulation of gas in the intestinal tract, relieving bloating and discomfort.

Option A: A cold enema, also known as an ice water enema, is used to reduce very high body temperature (hyperpyrexia). It is not used for relieving gas.
Option B: An anthelminthic enema is a medicated enema used to destroy and expel intestinal parasites, such as worms.
Option D: A purgative enema is used to induce a strong and complete evacuation of the bowels, often to treat severe constipation or to cleanse the bowel before a procedure. While it may expel some gas, its primary purpose is not gas relief.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: Knowing Types of enemas and their specific indications helps nurses interpret findings accurately and avoid errors in routine assessment, medication administration, and patient teaching.
Selecting the correct type of enema is crucial for effective patient care and safety. Using the wrong type can be ineffective and may cause harm.
For example, administering a hypertonic enema to a dehydrated patient is contraindicated as it can worsen their fluid and electrolyte imbalance.
Nurses must assess the patient's specific condition (constipation, gas, fever, parasites) to determine the appropriate intervention.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key terms in the question: "enema" and "gaseous distention".
The question asks for the specific type of enema used for a particular purpose.
This is a recall-based question requiring knowledge of different enema classifications.
Review the definitions of the options provided: Cold, Anthelminthic, Carminative, and Purgative.
Match the indication (relieving gaseous distention) with the correct enema type.
Carminative means 'expelling gas,' which directly corresponds to the purpose mentioned in the question.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QW6c63qHFigCA82BGJwuFc

E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 627-629

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

Practise the full HP CHO -9 October 2022

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