TWE

Medical abbreviation · Nursing

TWE stands for Tap water enema, a nursing abbreviation.

Large-volume cleansing enema of plain warm tap water, used to evacuate the bowel before some procedures. Water is hypotonic and is absorbed through the colon wall.

Example: TWE until clear ordered; stop after three if returns not clear.

Usage notes

Repeated tap water enemas can cause water intoxication and low sodium, particularly in infants and adults with heart or kidney disease, which is why "enemas until clear" orders usually limit the number given. Normal saline enemas are a safer isotonic alternative.

Related abbreviations

More nursing abbreviations

• SSE – Soapsuds enema
• T&P – Turn and position
• TCDB – Turn, cough, deep breathe
• TEDs – Thromboembolic deterrent stockings
• TF – Tube feeding
• TKO – To keep open
• UOP – Urine output
• VAC – Vacuum-assisted closure
• w/ – With
• w/o – Without
• WDL – Within defined limits
• WNL – Within normal limits

See all 90 nursing abbreviations →

Edited by the AbbreviationList.com team. Spotted an error or a missing meaning? Contact us.

This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.