Illinois CNA State Practice Exam

A cleansing enema is used to remove feces and gas from the large intestine in order to clean the bowel. Option A, assessing rectal temperature, is not the purpose of a cleansing enema and can be done without administering an enema. Option C, hydrating the body, is also not the purpose of a cleansing enema, as the primary function is to remove waste from the bowel. Option D, preventing dehydration, is not the purpose of a cleansing enema, although it may be a beneficial side effect.