What vital sign should be monitored after administering an enema?

Monitoring blood pressure is crucial after administering an enema for several reasons. The process of administering an enema can cause a range of physiological responses in the body, particularly related to fluid balance and vascular stability.

Enemas involve the introduction of fluid into the rectum and colon, which may lead to changes in the patient's blood volume and potentially impact blood pressure. If a large volume of fluid is administered, there is a risk of fluid overload, especially in patients with pre-existing heart or kidney issues. Conversely, if the enema causes excessive bowel evacuation or dehydration, blood pressure can also drop. Therefore, observing blood pressure helps healthcare providers detect any adverse reactions promptly, enabling appropriate interventions if needed.

While monitoring heart rate, respiration rate, and oxygen saturation is also important in different contexts, these parameters are not as directly influenced by the action of administering an enema compared to blood pressure. Hence, blood pressure is the most vital sign to monitor immediately following this procedure to ensure the patient's safety and well-being.