Evaluation of the Macy Catheter®: a rectal catheter for rapid medication and fluid administration

Introduction: Health care providers are increasingly challenged to balance cost considerations for devices, drugs, and staffing all while continuing to provide excellent care. Patients in both the post-acute and acute care settings often require fluid and/or medication when their oral route is compromised and vascular access may not be warranted or immediately accessible. The rectum is an underutilized administration point that can be accessed with speed and relative ease. Areas Covered: Literature reviews of pharmaceutical, medical, and nursing references reveal current and historical science that validates the rectal route as a means of alternative administration for fluids and medications. Expert Commentary: Historically the rectum has been used for medication and fluid delivery but in more recent times, use has waned due to many factors. The physiology of the rectum allows for rapid and reliable administration of a variety of medications as well as hydration. This serves as an introduction to a novel, simple, cost effective device that allows for discreet and painless rectal administration of fluids and medications when the oral route is compromised and/or intravenous access is difficult or unnecessary. This device is used in a variety of patients in many care settings.