Another name for this solution is sodium chloride (0.9%).
What supplies do I need?
- Tap water
- Salt (non-iodized salt)
- Baking measuring tool with teaspoon sizes
- Measuring tool for fluids up to 1000ml (1 liter)
- Pot with lid
- Stovetop or hot plate
- Air-tight storage container
How do I start?
Mix the solution
It is very important that you follow this exact recipe when you mix the solution:
- 1 liter (1,000 milliliters) of tap water at room temperature
- 1 ½ level teaspoons of non-iodized salt
Important information:
- Putting too much salt in the water of an enema can cause serious health problems, such as seizures and coma.
- To avoid these risks, you should always measure your salt with a measuring spoon - do not try to "eyeball" or estimate the amount.
- Boil the solution.
- To keep the water from evaporating, place the lid on the pot.
- Bring the solution to a rolling boil - this means large bubbles are coming up constantly.
- Turn the heat off and let the solution cool to room temperature with the lid on the pot.
How do I keep saline?
Once the boiled saline has cooled off, please store the saline in a clean air-tight container.
To prevent bacterial growth, keep unused saline in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and then throw it out and make more.
To Learn More
- General Surgery - 206-987-2794
- Urology - 206-987-2509
- Reconstructive Pelvic Medicine - 206-987-1240
- Ask your child’s healthcare provider
- seattlechildrens.org/patient-education
Free Interpreter Services
- In the hospital, ask your nurse.
- From outside the hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need.
