Rectal Medication Administration

Key Points

• Rectal administration supports local or systemic medication delivery when oral route is not feasible.
• Privacy, clear explanation, and left-side positioning improve comfort and procedural safety.
• Correct insertion direction is toward the umbilicus, followed by brief post-procedure rest.

Equipment

• Ordered rectal medication (with applicator when provided)
• Gloves and lubricant if indicated
• MAR/order verification access
• Privacy setup and hygiene supplies

Procedure Steps

1. Verify patient identity, medication, dose, and rectal route order.
2. Ensure privacy and explain the procedure to reduce anxiety.
3. Perform hand hygiene and gather supplies.
4. Position patient on left side with right knee bent.
5. Don gloves and prepare medication per order and manufacturer instructions.
6. Load medication into applicator if applicable, or prepare gloved-finger insertion if not.
7. Gently insert applicator/finger into rectum, aiming toward the umbilicus.
8. Deposit medication and withdraw applicator/fingers slowly.
9. Instruct patient to remain lying down for a few minutes to support absorption.
10. Document medication, dose, route, and patient response.

Common Errors

• Inadequate privacy/explanation → distress and poor cooperation.
• Incorrect insertion direction → discomfort and reduced placement quality.
• Rushed withdrawal technique → local tissue irritation risk.
• Skipping post-administration rest guidance → reduced medication absorption.

Related

• vaginal-medication-administration - Similar applicator-based insertion workflow with route-specific positioning differences.
• oral-medication-administration-safety - Route conversion decisions often begin when oral administration is unsafe or not feasible.