rectal instillation of medication, the instillation of a medicated suppository, cream, or gel into the rectum. Some conditions treated by this method are constipation, pruritus ani, and hemorrhoids. See also enema. ▪ METHOD: The patient lies on the left side, with the lower leg extended and the upper leg flexed. The health care provider unwraps the suppository and, wearing a glove, raises the upper buttock, exposing the anus. The suppository may be self-lubricating, or it may need to be lubricated with a water-soluble lubricant. The suppository is then gently inserted past the anal sphincter. The health care provider then wipes the anus with a tissue or piece of toilet paper. Occasionally a drug may be given in a medicated enema.
