Tips for preparing for your colonoscopy
Image "tool tip" used with permission by ocal (2010)
http://www.clker.com/clipart-tool-tip.html
Proper predparation for your colonoscopy is essential. The colon must be cleared of its contents so the physician can view the colon lining and look for polyps and any abnormality. Solid waste left in the colon obscures the view and also clogs the scope. This, in turn, may lead to the physician stopping the procedure necessitating you to re-prep and reschedule your exam.
There are different preps available; your physician will choose the best one for you based on your condition and the physician's preference.
Allow plenty of time to do your prep. Preps affect people differently; sometimes immediately, sometimes very slowly, or rarely, not at all.
Be sure that a toilet is close-by. Take along reading material, an electronic device, or cell phone for entertainment in case you are detained on the toilet.
The prep is MOST effective by quickly drinking 8 ounces at a time. The prep is LEAST effective by taking slow, small sips over a long period of time.
Using a straw works well to bring the prep to the back of your throat to avoid the taste. Some people prefer to drink a prep that is chilled. However, drinking a large volume of chilled fluid may cause shivering. The choice is yours to make, whether to drink room temperature or chilled fluids.
You are expected to expel a large volume of waste so be sure to replace the fluid that is being lost. Usually an electrolye based drink like gatorade or pedialyte is recommended. Drink a lot; as in plenty! This helps to ensure that you don't become dehydrated which allows for easier access to your vein (for an intravenous line or IV access) for your sedation during the procedure.
