The Anoscope for Foreign Bodies in the Rectum

​Rectal exams are difficult for the patient and require true expertise. You cannot expect to complete a good rectal exam or remove a rectal foreign body without the correct information, good bedside relationship, and the right equipment.Ensuring your patient has confidence in your ability is vital. Take the time to get to know what equipment is available in your ED. It's important to know what to do before a patient comes to your department with a rectal complaint.Most departments have a box dedicated to the anoscope. It typically will have two handles for light sources and two sizes of obturators with casing. The items that are not opened will remain sterile, but all other items must be sent to central processing for cleaning and sterilization after use. Photos by Martha Roberts.The majority of patients who need rectal examinations typically require simple digital exam and proper questioning. A formal anoscopic exam may be necessary if a patient has inserted an object into his rectum that needs removal. It may also be useful to evaluate rectal pain, bleeding, and hemorrhoids. This may often require an x-ray of the abdomen or pelvis.The anoscope is an excellent tool to complete the full exam. Pelvic speculums may be used if one is not available. A rectal block or expert consultation is warranted if the procedure requires more intricate steps.Obturators and scopes in two various sizes. Photos by Martha Roberts.A patient with a rectal foreign body is often afraid to discuss w...
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