How should a CMA ensure the effectiveness of a rectal suppository?

To ensure the effectiveness of a rectal suppository, it is essential that the patient does not have a bowel movement immediately after administration. This is because the suppository needs time to dissolve and be absorbed by the rectal mucosa to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. If a bowel movement occurs soon after insertion, it can expel the suppository before it has had a chance to work, leading to inadequate medication absorption and reduced effectiveness.

Maintaining the position of the patient can also be vital, but it is not as critical as ensuring that they do not have a bowel movement. Other options may suggest actions that could disrupt the absorption process or are irrelevant to the primary goal of allowing the medication time to act. Therefore, preventing bowel movements is the key factor in maximizing the effectiveness of the suppository.