How to Make Normal Saline You will need to make normal saline solution to give your child an enema. Another name for this solution is sodium chloride (0.9%). It is very important that you follow this exact recipe when you mix the solution: • 1 liter (1000 mls) of tap water at room temperature • 1 ½ level teaspoons of salt (do not use idodized salt). Always use a baking teaspoon. Putting too much salt in the water of an enema can cause serious health problems, such as seizures and coma. To avoid this, you should: • Always measure your salt correctly. Do not try to “eyeball” or estimate the amount. • Keep unused saline in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and then throw it out. Warm the solution to room temperature before giving the enema. To Learn More Free Interpreter Services • General Surgery • In the hospital, ask your nurse. 206-987-2794 • From outside the hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line, • Urology 206-987-2509 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need. • Reconstructive Pelvic Medicine 206-987-1240 • Ask your child’s healthcare provider • seattlechildrens.org Seattle Children’s offers interpreter services for Deaf, hard of hearing or non-English speaking patients, family members and legal representatives free of charge. Seattle Children’s will make this information available in alternate formats upon request. Call the 9/19 Family Resource Center at 206-987-2201. This handout has been reviewed by clinical staff at Seattle Children’s. However, your child’s needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon this information, please talk with your child’s healthcare provider. PE1116 © 2019 Seattle Children’s, Seattle, Washington. All rights reserved. .