Prepare for your Procedure

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Medication warnings for patients taking:

Anticoagulation and anti-platelet medications (blood thinners)
If you are currently taking a blood thinner, for your safety we require cardiac clearance from the prescribing physician.  Please contact the office to provide the name of your cardiologist so that we may request the cardiac clearance on your behalf.

Injectable medications for weight loss and diabetes
If you currently are taking a weekly injectable medication for weight loss or diabetes and were not given specific instructions on when to stop these medications, please call the office immediately. This does not include insulin. This class of medications needs to be stopped at least 2 weeks prior to your surgery to avoid complications. Please call 3 weeks prior to receive detailed instructions. During this call, we will address your specific needs, considering each patient has individual requirements.

Day before a colonoscopy

It is very important that you hydrate yourself well before the exam. You may be asked to be on a clear liquid diet only. Clear liquids are liquids that you can see through if you place it against a light. Examples are apple juice, plain tea, black coffee, clear broth or jello. Avoid any liquids that are red in color (i.e. red jello). Milk, since you cannot see through it, is not a clear liquid and should be avoided. Don’t forget about drinking plain water!

It is very important that you follow the instructions that were given to you by your physician regarding the bowel preparation. This bowel cleansing will help you have a successful exam. Please call your physician if you have any questions.

In most cases, you will be receiving sedation and will not be able to drive home. Make sure you have made appropriate transportation arrangements.

Day before having anesthesia

Unless otherwise instructed, there is no preparation for this procedure. You will need to avoid eating and drinking prior to coming. Your physician will let you know how long you will need to fast.

In most cases, you will be receiving sedation and will not be able to drive home. Make sure you have made appropriate transportation arrangements.

Day of procedure

Come to the center wearing loose comfortable clothing. It is best that you leave all valuables and jewelry at home. You will be asked to change into a patient gown.

Please bring your insurance card(s) and photo ID in addition to any paperwork that your physician’s office gave to you to complete.

At the center, an IV will be inserted. This is a catheter that is usually placed in your arm or hand. This allows your physician to provide medication that will make your experience as pain free as possible. A registered nurse will be at your side at all times to monitor your heart and respiratory status.

After the procedure

You will be sent home with written discharge instructions and may receive a copy of the procedure report. Biopsies may be taken during the procedure. You should hear from your physician in about 1 week with the results. Please don’t hesitate to call if you don’t hear from your physician or if you have concerns.

Some people don’t remember anything about the procedure. This is due to the drugs used for sedation and is quite normal. This is another reason why you need to have a ride home. When it is time, we will ask your ride to park in front of our building and we will bring you down to the car.

For more info or to request an appointment