In which position should a resident be placed for administering rectal medication?

The appropriate position for administering rectal medication is for the resident to be placed on their left side. This position, known as the left lateral position, allows for easier access to the rectum and facilitates the proper administration of the medication. When the patient is on their left side, it also encourages the medication to move upward into the rectum due to the natural anatomy of the rectum and colon, which curves to the left.

This positioning not only ensures patient comfort but also minimizes the risk of discomfort and complications. In this position, the resident's knees can be drawn lightly towards their chest, which can help to relax the anal sphincter, further aiding in the successful administration of the medication.

Other positions, such as lying on the stomach, lying on the back, or sitting up, do not provide the same degree of access or comfort for administering a rectal medication. Therefore, using the left side position is the most effective and commonly recommended approach for this procedure.