Colonoscopy Procedure

Colonoscopy Procedure

Colonoscopy procedure is a screening test used to find, evaluate, and treat abnormalities in your colon. It is performed by a highly trained doctor, such as a gastroenterologist or a surgeon. Read the full version of our Welcome Sheet on Having a Colonoscopy Procedure at California Pacific Medical Center.

Colonoscopy Preparation (Prep)

Because colonoscopy screening requires your doctor to look directly at the lining of your intestine, it is important that all fecal material be removed. Even small amounts of feces can prevent a clear view of the colon. Achieving a reasonably clean colon involves following these dietary and medication guidelines and your preparation instructions.

Be sure to follow your preparation ("prep") instructions carefully.

Check the date & time you are supposed to start your prep.

Double check the date of your procedure.

Do not eat or drink anything after midnight on the night before your procedure unless your doctor has told you otherwise.

Arrange for someone who can drive you home after the test. (You'll be given medicine before the procedure that can make you very drowsy, so it will not be safe for you to drive yourself home.)

Be sure to arrive at the hospital a full hour before your colonoscopy procedure.

Medication Guidelines

Let your doctor know if you take any of the following:

Iron supplements

Multi-vitamins with Iron(Fe)

Aspirin: Bayer (OTC), Bufferin (OTC), Ecotrin (OTC)

Ibuprofen: Advil, Motrin

Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory medication: Vioxx (Rofecoxib), Celebrex (Celecoxib), Aleve (OTC) (Naproxen)

Blood thinners: Coumadin (Warfarin), Plavix (Clopidogrel)

Vitamin E

You can also get more colonoscopy information by going to Learning About Your Health, a searchable database of classes, info sheets, educational consultations, support groups and more created by California Pacific physicians and staff for patients and their families.