Which nursing responsibility is important when administering an enema?

Positioning the patient on the left side when administering an enema is important because this position leverages gravity to facilitate the flow of the solution into the rectum and colon. The left lateral position, often referred to as the "Sim's position," aligns the sigmoid colon with the rectum, promoting effective distribution of the fluid and reducing discomfort during the procedure. This position also helps to prevent potential complications, such as leakage, by allowing for optimal anatomy alignment.

When considering the other options, inserting the tube quickly may lead to discomfort or injury to the rectal tissue. Holding the irrigation set too high can increase pressure and cause discomfort or even perforation. Using hot solutions is contraindicated due to the risk of burns or damage to the mucosal lining of the intestines; only warm solutions should be used. Therefore, positioning the patient appropriately is a key nursing responsibility that enhances both safety and effectiveness during enema administration.