Preparation before Procedures

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Do these things 7 DAYS BEFORE the procedure:

  • Arrange a ride

    You will be given medicine that makes you relax and be sleepy, so you cannot drive a car or take a bus home. If you arrive without an escort, your procedure may need to be rescheduled.

  • Stop taking aspirin

  • If you are taking Coumadin or Plavix, call your doctor or nurse for special instructions.

Do these things 3 DAYS BEFORE the procedure:

  • Review the diet you need to follow for the next 2 days.

    Plan your meals according to this diet.

Do these things 2 DAYS BEFORE the procedure:

  • Stop taking all anti-inflammatory medicines.

    These include: Nuprin, Bufferin, Anacin, Advil, Motrin, Indocin, Voltran, Aleve, Ecotrin, Relafen, Alka Seltzer, Naprosyn, Voltaren (Tylenol is okay to take)

  • Stop eating seeds, popcorn, nuts and whole grains.

  • Do not eat any solid food after midnight.

Do these things 1 DAY BEFORE the procedure:

  • Start a strict, clear liquid diet.

    If you put a liquid in a clear glass, and you can see through it, it is probably OK to drink. A clear liquid diet can include:

      • Apple, white grape, and cranberry juices;
      • Beef or chicken broths that are clear;
      • Tea and coffee without milk;
      • Soda pop, Gatorade, Kool-Aid and various Jell-O flavors (any color except red)
  • Avoid: juices with pulp, milk, cream and solid food.

  • 1st BOTTLE 5 PM night before colonoscopy

  • 2nd bottle at 9 PM

  • NPO after midnight