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Colonoscopy – Patient Instructions
A colonoscopy is an exam that views the inside of the colon (large intestine) and rectum using a tool called a colonoscope. The colonoscope has a small camera attached to a flexible tube that can reach the length of the colon.
When you are in the Hospital
This is what the procedure involves:
• You will likely be given medicine into a vein (IV) to help you relax and not feel any pain.
• The colonoscope will be gently inserted through the anus and will be carefully moved into the large intestine.
• Air will be inserted through the scope to provide a better view.
• Tissue samples (biopsy or polyps) might be removed using tiny tools inserted through the scope and photos might be taken using the camera at the end of the scope
Right After the Test
• You are taken to an area to recover right after the test, and you may wake up there and not remember anything as the sedative given to you would make you feel sleepy.
• The nurse will check your blood pressure and pulse and your IV shall be removed.
• Your doctor will likely come to talk to you and explain the results of the test.
• Ask to have this information written down, as you may not remember what you were told later on.
• Results for any tissue biopsies that were done may take up to 1 to 3 weeks.
Getting Home
• Medicines you will be given can change the way you think and make it harder to remember for the rest of the day. As a result, it is not safe for you to drive a car or find your own way home.
• You will not be allowed to leave alone as you will need a friend or family member to take you home for your safety.
Eating and Drinking
• You will be asked to wait 30 minutes or more before drinking. Try small sips of water first, and when you can do this easily, you can begin with small amounts of solid foods.
• You might feel a little bloated from air pumped into your colon, and burp or pass gas more often over the day.
• If gas and bloating bother you, here are some things you can do:
o Use a heating pad
o Walk around
o Lie on your left side
Throughout the Day
• Do not plan to return to work for the rest of the day as it is not safe to drive or handle tools or equipment.
• You should also avoid making important work or legal decisions for the rest of the day, even if you believe your thinking is clear.
• Keep an eye on the site where the IV fluids and medicines were given and watch for any redness or swelling.
• Ask your doctor which medicines or blood thinners you should start taking again and when to take them.
• If you had a polyp removed, your provider may ask you to avoid lifting items and other activities for up to 1 week