Skip to main content
 
  1. Attach the cone irrigation tip to the end of the tubing.
  2. Put the correct amount of lukewarm water (as instructed by your health care providers) into the enema bag. Plain water usually works more effectively than saline and is safe to use. If your child’s health care provider has recommended using saline instead of water, it can be made by adding 1 ½ teaspoons of salt to every 500 cc of water.
  3. Hang the bag 5 to 6 feet high.
  4. Flush the tubing with water by allowing water to drain completely through the tubing so that no air will be pushed into your child’s body. Once water has completely filled the tube, reclamp it shut.
  5. Lubricate the tip of the cone.
  6. With your child sitting on the toilet or laying on his or her RIGHT side, gently insert the tip of the cone into the rectum. Do not insert the cone deeply, as this will hurt your child. Hold the cone in place.
  7. Open the clamp on the enema bag to allow the water to run in relatively fast, emptying the full bag in about one to two minutes. If your child experiences cramping, pause briefly and then resume the enema. If your child experiences pain, STOP filling.
  8. Remove the cone tip after 5-10 minutes of your child sitting/lying with the entire amount of water in his or her abdomen.
  9. You may massage your child’s abdomen in a clockwise direction.
  10. Move your child onto the toilet. Your child should remain on the toilet to drain his or her bowel.
  11. Wash the cone irrigation tip with soap and water. Store it dry until the next use.

NOTE: Do not use enemas more frequently than once per day.

This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your health care providers. If you have any questions, talk with your doctor or others on your health care team. If you are a Gillette patient with urgent questions or concerns, please contact Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890.