 Is Alcohol considered a clear liquid?[+]
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Although many alcohols are clear liquids, drinking alcohol during your preparation is not recommended. Alcohol affects your fluid balance. It is of particular importance that you remain well hydrated throughout your preparation. |
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I didn’t read my instructions far enough in advance. I just read about the low residue diet the day before my procedure. I haven’t been following this diet. Should I reschedule? [+] |
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The low residue diet is recommended as one part of your overall preparation for colonoscopy. Following the low residue diet provides added assurance that your preparation will be adequate. The most important aspect of the preparation is the laxative solution itself, which you have been instructed to drink. Whether or not you complete this solution as instructed is what will determine the success of your preparation. Do your best to follow the low residue diet, but if for some reason you can’t, we won’t need to reschedule you. |
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Do I have to take all six Dulcolax tablets? [+] |
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The Dulcolax tablets that have been prescribed as part of your preparation are helpful in removing the excess fluid from your colon. You should take all six Dulcolax tablets as ordered. If you are unable to do so, don’t reschedule your procedure. As long as you have completed the laxative solution, your physician will still perform your procedure. |
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I only weigh 100 pounds, do I have to drink the whole preparation solution? [+] |
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Yes. The instructions you have been given to prepare for your procedure are the same for everyone. It is not based on your weight. Everyone needs to drink the same amount in order to be adequately prepared for colonoscopy. |
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My instructions say that I need a ride home. Can I take a taxi home? [+] |
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You may take a taxi home if you are accompanied by a responsible adult. This should be someone other than the driver. You will be sedated for your procedure. We need to ensure your safety upon discharge. |
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I take medications for anxiety or chronic pain. Can I take these medications the morning of my procedure? [+] |
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You may take any routine medications the morning of your procedure. It is important, as you will be receiving sedation, that you not eat or drink the morning of your procedure. Taking a few sips of water with your medications is fine, but any medications that need to be taken with food should wait until you get home. If you take several medications in the morning requiring large amounts of water, you should take only those medications that are essential. You can take the others when you go home. |
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I have a cold, should I reschedule my procedure [+] |
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If you have a fever or productive cough, we may need to reschedule your appointment. If you are experiencing cold symptoms prior to your procedure you should call before coming in to speak with a nurse. |
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May I breastfeed my baby after I receive sedation? [+] |
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It is recommended that you pump and discard the breast milk when you return home after your procedure. It is then considered safe for you to breastfeed as usual. |
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I have a weak stomach. I’m afraid the preparation will make me nauseous. What do I do if it does? [+] |
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If you find that the laxative solution is making you nauseous, the first thing to do is slow down. Give yourself a little more time between glasses or take a break if you need to. If you find that you are still nauseous or if you begin vomiting, call to speak with a physician. If it is after hours the on-call physician can be paged. It is important that you complete the laxative solution so be sure to call if you are unable to keep it down. |
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Why can’t I eat or drink after midnight? [+] |
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You will be receiving sedation the day of your procedure. The risks associated with this sedation are rare, but are increased if you have food or fluid in your stomach. If you vomit while under sedation and swallow this into your lungs this could cause a pneumonia. |
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The last time I had this procedure I was awake and had a lot of pain. Will this happen again? [+] |
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No. The sedative we use now is different than what has been used in the past. We are pleased to be able to offer you the most advanced techniques in sedation. You will sleep comfortably through your procedure. For more information please read the section on anesthesia. |
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Will the anesthesia make me nauseous? [+] |
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No. As well as having a sedative effect, propofol also prevents nausea. You should not experience post-procedure nausea or vomiting as you may have in the past with traditional sedation. |
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Can I work the next day? [+] |
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Yes. You will be instructed to rest the day of your procedure. Working, driving or strenuous activity is prohibited. You may resume all normal activities the day after your procedure. |
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The last time I had this test I didn’t have to drink as much. Can I have the old preparation? [+] |
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The last time you prepared for a colonoscopy, you may have used Fleets Phosphosoda. Unfortunately, that preparation is no longer available. In its place, your physician has prescribed for you the preparation that he/she feels will most likely provide you with the best results. |
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I lost my instructions, what do I do? [+] |
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For your convenience we have included our most frequently used preparation instructions on our website. If you misplace your instructions please refer to these. |
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Pentucket Medical