During an enema administration, if the patient reports cramping or pain, what should the nurse do?

• A. Increase the infusion rate
• B. Stop the enema for 30 seconds and then restart at a slower rate
• C. Continue the infusion at the same rate
• D. Stop the enema permanently

Answer: (B)

Cramping during an enema is usually from rapid distension of the colon which triggers peristaltic spasm. The best course is to stop the enema for about 30 seconds to let the bowel relax, then restart the infusion at a slower rate. This pause reduces the stimulus causing cramping and prevents it from worsening while still delivering the solution. Increasing the rate would likely worsen the cramps, continuing at the same rate is unlikely to relieve them, and stopping permanently ends the procedure prematurely. If cramps recur, resume at an even slower rate after another short pause and monitor the patient’s comfort.