Preparation for Colonoscopy

Such an important exam requires careful preparation.

Your doctor has decided that a colonoscopy is necessary to better evaluate your colon, or large intestine. The results obtained from this exam are dependant on your lower bowl (colon) being carefully cleansed and empty. An improperly prepared bowel may mean that the exam will have to be repeated an another time. More importantly, stool left in the intestinal tract can hide important conditions that may be present. Therefore, it is very important that you follow these instructions as carefully as possible. If the test is worth doing, it deserves the best possible preparation.

A couple of hints... To fully evaluate the colon, this preparation will cause you to have many liquid bowel movements. Note that individual responses to laxatives vary widely. Plan to remain within easy reach of toilet facilities. Many patients find that Charmin Plus toilet tissues minimizes anal irritation from repeated wiping. Also, rubbing a small amount of hydrocortisone cream, such as Cort-Aid, around the anal area after each bowel movement can lessen the irritation. On the day of your exam, wear comfortable, easily removable clothing and leave jewelry and other valuables at home. If you have a menstrual period, it is ok to wear a tampon.

Five days before the procedure, stop taking Goody's powder, Iron and any Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Feldene, Naprosyn). If you are taking Coumadin or any blood thinners, you must stop 5 to 7 days before. Please ask for instructions. You may take Tylenol.

If you are on any blood pressure medicine, please take it at least 2 hours before your scheduled procedure time. Take it with just enough water to swallow the medicine.

IF YOU HAVE DIABETES

If you take insulin twice a day, take your normal evening dose the day before your procedure and none in the evening. Do not take any insulin the morning of your procedure until after it is completed.

If you take diabetic pills twice a day, take your normal morning dose the day before and none in the evening. Do not take a pill in the morning of your procedure until after it is completed.

COLONOSCOPY

THE DAY BEFORE your procedure you are to be on a clear liquid diet (clear juices, water, soup broth, Gatorade, Crystal Light, Jello, and popsicles (except RED or PURPLE). You may not have coffee, soda, or tea.

At 9:00 AM you will begin drinking your laxative, Nulytely. Drink one glass every 20 minutes until it is finished. You may have nausea while drinking the solution. Take a break and start drinking it slowly. You should drink all of it to ensure an adequate preparation. This will cause loose stools and diarrhea.

You may not eat or drink anything after midnight.

ENDOSCOPY

You may not have anything to eat or drink after midnight.

Because of the medication you will be given during the procedure, you will need a driver. This test will be cancelled if you do not have a driver. There are no exceptions.