Normal Saline Recipe
Question: I have read differing recipes for normal saline for bowel irrigations. What is the recommended formula for use with children with anorectal malformations?
I have read differing recipes for normal saline for bowel irrigations. Working with a laboratory technician who weighed and measured samples and based on a normal saline of 0.9 percent, we determined the formula for home mixing should be one heaping teaspoon in one quart of water. Is this the recommended formula for use with children with anorectal malformations?
Answer: We recommend exactly one and a half teaspoons of salt for every liter of water.
We recommend exactly one and a half teaspoons of salt in one liter (1000ml) of water. Putting excessive amounts of salt in the water of an enema may have serious negative consequences, such as seizures and coma. The safest saline solution is that one prepared by a pharmaceutical laboratory. It is called Normal Saline Solution (0.9 percent).
Contact the Colorectal Center at Cincinnati Children's
For more information or to request an appointment for the Colorectal Center at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, please contact us.
