What is the correct action when administering a rectal suppository to a school-age child?

When administering a rectal suppository to a school-age child, using one finger to insert the suppository past the anal sphincters is the correct action. This approach is necessary to ensure that the suppository is placed deep enough within the rectum to allow for proper absorption of the medication.

Inserting the suppository past the anal sphincters is crucial because these muscles contract and may prevent the suppository from moving further inside if not properly positioned. Proper insertion minimizes the risk of the suppository being expelled and maximizes its effectiveness in delivering the medication.

In the context of this procedure, using two fingers might introduce unnecessary discomfort or trauma, especially for a child. Having the child hold the suppository is not effective, as it defeats the purpose of ensuring the medication is properly absorbed, and only inserting it halfway may result in it not being retained or adequately metabolized by the body.