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Colonoscopy Information Sheet

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Please report to the Hillcrest Endoscopy Clinic at Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center on the day of your scheduled procedure one hour and thirty minutes prior to your scheduled procedure time. After receipt and review of the following information, please call Hillcrest Endoscopy at 254-202-8997 within 24 hours for additional instruction.

 

What is a colonoscopy?

A colonoscopy allows a gastrointestinal or “GI” doctor to examine the lining of the rectum and the colon (large intestine) to identify any abnormalities. It gives specific information that X-rays or other tests do not provide to help diagnose intestinal problems.

 

Why do I need a colonoscopy?

You may need this test if you have one or more of the following:

  • Age 50 or older.
  • Lower abdominal (belly) pain.
  • Blood in your stool, chronic diarrhea, constipation or a change in bowel habits.
  • An abnormal X-ray.
  • An unexplained drop in blood iron levels.
  • Family history of colon/cancer or colon polyps

 

 

GETTING READY:

Prior to your procedure you must follow directions to clean out your colon. This is very important. If not done properly you will not be allowed to go through with the procedure. Plan to stay home during your prep time (beginning the afternoon or evening before the test), since you will need to use the bathroom frequently. The prep can be done several ways based on the doctor’s recommendation and your preference.

 

What is a bowel/colon prep?

You will be required to drink a fluid laxative which will thoroughly cleanse your colon of stool.  You will pick up instructions and a prescription for your colon prep (fluid laxative) from your ordering physician.If the colon prep makes you nauseated or sick to your stomach, please call your GI doctor.

 

What about other medications that I am taking?

Have a list of all of the medicines you take handy and share these with the Hillcrest Endoscopy Clinic when they call you to pre-register for your procedure.  This includes any medications you take for any medical conditions or that you take regularly including herbal supplements, vitamins and over-the-counter drugs such as aspirin, Ibuprofen, Aleve, Anacin or Excedrin.

 

When and what should I eat? 

During the colon prep time (12-18 hours before your test) you will need to follow a clear liquid diet.

  • Water, strained (no-pulp) fruit juices, Gatorade, Kool-Aid, tea, coffee and soda.
  • Vegetable, chicken or beef broth or bullion.
  • Gelatin (Jell-O) or popsicles that are not red or purple.

DO NOT:

  • Consume any dairy products, alcohol, red or purple-colored beverages.
  • Eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your exam.

Colon Prep Tip:

Apply diaper rash ointment (Desitin cream) before you take the colon prep. Apply more after each bowel movement. This will ease any feelings of burning on the skin around your anus (rear end) caused by diarrhea.

 

 

THE DAY OF THE TEST:

 

How is it done? 

During a colonoscopy, a flexible tube connected to a light source, called a colonoscope, is passed through the rectum into the lower intestinal tract.  This will take pictures of your colon. You may be asked to change positions during the procedure and slight pressure may be applied to your abdomen to assist in passing the colonoscope and to thoroughly examine the bowel lining.

 

Is it uncomfortable? 

Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely. Leave jewelry and valuables at home. You will be given a sedative prior to the exam to help decrease sensations of nerves and anxiety.  You may feel some cramping or gas due to the air that the doctor puts into the colon to see better.  Sometimes a tiny bit of tissue or polyp will be removed.  You will not feel any sensation or discomfort during the biopsy or when polyps are removed.

 

Are medications given? 

Yes.  Your doctor will give you a sedative prior to the exam to help you feel sleepy, relaxed, and less nervous.  It will be given through injection or an IV.  The sedative medicine will make you drowsy and forgetful for the rest of the day. You will need someone to wait for you onsite at the Hillcrest Endoscopy Clinic to speak with and receive instruction from the doctor after the procedure. They will also need to be available to drive you home. DO NOT DRIVE HOME ALONE.

 

How long does the test take? 

The exam itself takes 30-45 minutes. You will be monitored for 30-60 minutes after the test. You will be given fluids as soon as you are awake and able to drink them, and you can eat one hour after the test, unless otherwise directed by your doctor. 

 

What are the risks of colonoscopy?

Bleeding and perforation of the colon. This rarely occurs.

 

When will I get the results?  It takes about 5-7 working days to get your results.  Your doctor may briefly discuss the exam findings with you or your family.  You may call your GI doctor to check on the status of your results.

 

 

Care Agreement:

You have the right to help plan your care. To do this, you must learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. You can discuss options and work with your caregivers to decide on your treatment plan. You always have the right to refuse treatment. Call your doctor if you are worried or have questions about your medicine.  Hillcrest Endoscopy is also available to answer your questions and concerns at 254-202-8997.