A barium enema is a radiographic procedure used to view the rectum and

large intestine. Nurses are sometimes responsible for preparing the patient
and providing aftercare. X-ray technicians perform the actual exam.

Diet

1. Patients are usually restricted to a liquid diet for 24 to 48 hours before

the exam. They should not eat or drink after midnight on the day of the
barium enema.

Bowel Preparation

2. A nurse might be ordered to administer laxatives or a cleansing enema

for bowel preparation. The patient's large intestine must be empty of stool to
get useful images.

Hydration

3. Nurses should encourage the patient to consume plenty of liquids before

and after the exam. This helps to prevent dehydration and constipation.
Barium is a dehydrating substance.

Teaching

4. It's important to educate the patient about the purpose of the exam and
bowel preparation. When possible, let him know what to expect ahead of
time. Inform the client that it's normal to have white stools for a few days
after the procedure.

Aftercare

5. In an inpatient setting, nurses should be prepared to allow the client to

rest and eat after the procedure. The patient might be given a laxative for
constipation or to get rid of any barium that remains.

Normal pulmonary tissue is radiolucent and appears black on film. Thus,

densities produced by tumors, foreign bodies, infiltrates, can be detected as
lighter or white images.

2. This test shows the position of normal structures, displacement, and

presence of abnormal shadows. It may reveal pathology in the lungs in the
absence of symptoms.
NURSING AND PATIENT CARE CONSIDERATIONS:

1. Should be taken upright if patient’s condition permits. Assist technician at

bedside in preparing patient for portable chest X-ray.

2. Encourage patient to take deep breath, hold breath, and remain still as X-
ray is taken.

3. Make sure that all jewelry, electrocardiogram (ECG) leads or metal objects
in X-ray field are removed so as not to interfere with film.

4. Consider the contraindication of X-rays for pregnant patients.