Put on a latex glove and administer an enema of glycerin or mineral oil. Lubricate the latex glove and insert the index finger into the rectum and gently locate the mass of stool. Break up the mass of stool piece by piece with gentle prodding, taking care not to damage to the rectal lining. Evacuate the person if the impacted stool can't be located with a gloved finger, if digital probing fails to eliminate the stool, if a fever is present, or if the rectal lining is at all damaged in the removal process. Fecal impaction is a potentially dangerous situation requiring aggressive intervention in order to eliminate the feces.
Prevention is key - catching fecal impaction too late can require surgery.
Evacuate immediately if a person has not defecated in four to five days or has a distended abdomen. They will require the help of a trained medical professional to remove the stool. The passage of a hard stool may be quite painful and measures should be taken to protect the rectal lining from damage. Never leave a person who is attempting to eliminate a fecal impaction alone in the attempt. This procedure may be quite painful, and a person may need assistance if the rectal lining is damaged or he or she loses consciousness from the pain.