| Table 13-1 | Commonly Used Enema Solutions |
| Solution | Amount | Action | Time to Take Effect | Adverse Effects |
| Tap water (hypotonic) | 500-1,000 mL | Distends intestine, increases peristalsis, softens stool | 15 minutes | Can lead to fluid and electrolyte imbalance, water intoxicationShould not be used in children |
| Normal saline (isotonic) | 500-1,000 mL | Distends intestine, increases peristalsis, softens stool | 15 minutes | |
| Soap | 500-1,000 mL (concentrate at 3-5 mL/1,000 mL) | Distends intestine, irritates intestinal mucosa, which stimulates peristalsis, softens stool | 10-15 minutes | Must only use Castile soap; other soaps will cause significant rectal mucosa irritation or damage |
| Phosphate (hypertonic) | 70-130 mL | Draws fluids out of the interstitial space into the colon, leading to distention which stimulates peristalsis. | 5-10 minutes | Avoid in patients who are dehydrated or where phosphate retention could be a concern. Can be irritating to rectum |
| | Commonly used, commercially prepared (Fleet Enema) | | |
| Oil (mineral, olive, or cottonseed oil) | 150-200 mL | Lubricates stool and intestinal mucosa. Often used as a retention enema. | 30 minutes | |
| | If able, patient may need to hold solution for 30-60 minutes | | |