Description
Designed and developed in the UK, this range of innovative trans-anal irrigation systems use materials that make them easy to use and work brilliantly.
The Aquaflush Lite is the simplified irrigation system using just the essential components to deliver and easy-to-use, compact solution. Its smaller water bag suits users who need less water for each irrigation and can sit on a toilet or commode while holding the cone in place.
Main Features of Aquaflush Lite
- Super-smooth silicone cone with rounded tip
- Washbag for discrete storage (Starter Kit Only)
- 1.2 litre water bag with integrated thermometer to check water temperature is safe
- Hand pump to easily control speed of irrigation
- In-line tap to control water flow
- Easy to use ‘click/close’ connection for water bag.
How Aquaflush Lite works
Aquaflush Lite introduces a measured amount of water at body temperature, clearly shown by the integrated thermometer strip, into the large bowel by inserting a cone into the rectum and squeezing a hand pump. The water, along with the stool in the lower portion of the bowel, is then emptied into the toilet.
Practical Tips
You should consult with your health professional about your specific situation prior to commencing with rectal irrigation.
Before you start make sure you have everything you are likely to need to hand. All our cones are supplied with a water based lubricant to put on the cone for easier insertion. Extra disposable plastic gloves, wet wipes and a waste bin with disposable plastic liner may also be useful.
Use the strap to secure the tubing to your leg so the pump is in easy reach. One strap is provided with the Aquaflush Starter Systems or available separately (AFStrap).
Use the extension tube to increase the length of tubing for ease of use
One extension tube is provided with the Aquaflush Starter Systems or available separately (AFExtn).
Ideas where to place the water bag
Our water bags have an integral hanging loop so you can hang it from a hook, washbasin or toilet- roll holder. Whatever you choose to hang it from, ensure it is secure as a full bag can weigh over 2kg.
Our kits also come with a unique folding water bag stand (shown above) so you can place the bag on the floor next to you within easy reach. All our starter kits come with a stand included.
Use the Tubing Clip to prevent tubing trailing on the floor
One tubing clip is provided in each Aquaflush water reservoir/pump unit.
Important Information
If you are using bowel medication such as laxatives it is important to continue with them until your Health Care Professional advises you otherwise. Very severe constipation or impaction needs to be resolved before commencing rectal irrigation. Your Health Care Professional can help you. Always drink plenty of water (1.5–2 litres a day). Eat plenty of fibre (5 pieces fruit/veg a day). Once severe constipation is resolved regular rectal irrigation will help prevent future episodes.
Pain
No pain should be experienced during any part of the irrigation process. If at any stage in the process you experience any pain stop immediately and contact your Healthcare Professional. If it continues, or is accompanied by bleeding or vomiting, then seek emergency medical advice immediately.
Blood
On occasions there may be spots of blood on the cone or in the toilet. Do not worry but if it keeps occurring then mention it to your Healthcare Professional. Sudden major bleeding requires emergency medical attention.
Abdominal spasms/cramps
Check the watertemperature is not too high or low. Pump the water in more slowly. Allow any gas to pass. Some people experience abdominal spasms as part of the bowel emptying process. If it has always been a feature of your bowel emptying then you may find it is slightly more severe during irrigation.
Feeling sick or bloated during/after the irrigation
It is not unusual for people to feel a bit unwell during or immediately after irrigation.
These symptoms should pass quickly:
• Nausea
• Light headedness
• Dizziness
• Goose-bumps
• Sweating
• Palpitations
It makes sense to ensure there is someone near at hand that can help you for the first few irrigations
Safety
People have been using rectal irrigation since ancient times. If you have been assessed by a qualified Health Care Professional and correctly instructed to use the system then the risk of complications is minimal. Some people experience a little discomfort or bleeding. correct insertion and responsible use of the system at all times will ensure there are no complications. Pumping in too much water or damaging the bowel with water that is too hot can also be a complication so ensure the water temperature is correct and you are pumping in the recommended volume
IMPORTANT: For people with Spinal injuries at or above lesion level T6 only
If you have such a spinal injury you should be aware of a condition called Autonomic Dysreflexia (AD) sometimes also known as Hyperreflexia. It is an autonomic reflex causing a sudden, severe, increase in blood pressure in response to pain
or discomfort, usually originating below the level of paralysis. Tetraplegics are more prone to this complication. It is a medical emergency. We strongly recommend that you talk to your prescribing Health Care Professional about this before commencing rectal irrigation.
