Rectal Examination

Question 1

Remember

Answer 1

Refer to them as Mr/Mrs

Question 2

How do you examine the perinal area?

Answer 2

Gently separate the buttocks to inspect the perianal area

Look at the shape of the anus

Anal tone

Strain down

Descent of anus

Rectal prolapse

Question 3

When inserting finger, maker sure to place the pulp of finger on..

Answer 3

Posterior anal margin

Question 4

In which order do you assess the walls of the rectum?

Answer 4

Posterior and posterolateral walls first

Anterior and anterolateral walls after

Question 5

What are you feeling for?

Answer 5

Presence/absence of faeces - consistency

Palpable abnormalities (e.g irregularity in rectal wall or a mass within the lumen of the rectum)

Ask patient to bear down

Question 6

What can you do as you withdraw your finger?

Answer 6

Feel for any irregularities within the anal canal

Examine gloved finger for stool colour and for any blood, mucus and pus