title: The use of phosphate enemas in the treatment of constipation.
abstract: Phosphate enemas are commonly used by community nurses in the treatment of constipation. This article reports on a literature review of evidence relating to their use. No evidence was found to support the use of these enemas conclusively, although a number of articles reported risks, contraindications, and complications. Phosphate enemas should therefore be used with caution and nurses should be aware of the contraindications associated with their use.
authors.affiliation: Kennet and North Wiltshire Primary Care Trust.
authors.forename: Caroline
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Davies
mesh_terms: D002400:Cathartics / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D003152:Community Health Nursing / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D003248:Constipation / Q000628:therapy*; D000075202:Contraindications; D004733:Enema / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000451:nursing; D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D006801:Humans; D018579:Patient Selection; D010710:Phosphates / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D012307:Risk Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D002400:Cathartics; D010710:Phosphates; C018279:sodium phosphate