Which side should a patient be turned toward before administering an enema?

Turning a patient to the left side before administering an enema is recommended for several reasons related to anatomy and comfort. The left lateral position allows for better flow of the enema solution into the sigmoid colon and rectum due to the natural curvature of the colon. This position also helps to facilitate the ease of evacuation, as it aligns the bowel in a way that reduces resistance and allows for a smoother passage of the solution.

Additionally, lying on the left side can often make the patient feel more comfortable and relaxed during the procedure. It's important for the caregiver to ensure the patient is in a position that promotes not just effectiveness, but also dignity and comfort, particularly because this procedure may be sensitive for many individuals.

The other positioning options, such as sitting upright or lying flat on the back, do not offer the same anatomical advantages and could hinder the effectiveness of the enema. Turning the patient to the right side would also not be beneficial, as it doesn't optimize the flow toward the area of interest in the colon.