Gastroenterology

FAQs

What happens if I cannot drink all of the prep solution?
It is important that you complete all of the solution for your prep to ensure the best results for cleansing the colon.  We recommend that you follow the written instructions, including the starting time. This is to help ensure that your preparation is effective in aiding our ability to detect colon abnormalities such as polyps. If you feel you have tried to drink all the solution and still are unable to complete it, please call our office immediately to see what is advised (336)-538-2355.

What are examples of CLEAR LIQUIDS that I may have prior to my colonoscopy?
In general, if light can shine through a liquid, it is considered a clear liquid. Such examples include:  coffee without cream, tea, coke, sprite, apple juice, Jell-O-o gelatin without fruit, beef or chicken broth, bouillon, water, Kool-Aid Popsicles, etc. As long as the clear liquids are NOT RED or PURPLE. THERE IS NO LIMIT ON THE AMOUNT OF CLEAR LIQUIDS YOU CAN HAVE AND THE MORE YOU DRINK THE BETTER YOU WILL FEEL.

Can I use sugar in my coffee/tea prior to my colonoscopy?
Yes.  You are allowed to use sugar and sugar substitutes in your CLEAR Liquids during your prep.

Can I take a Taxi home by myself after the procedure?
No. Due to the sedation given during the procedure, you are considered legally impaired.  The sedation medication impairs your judgment and reflexes.  A trusted person must be with you to drive you home or accompany you on public transit.

I am having my menstrual period, should I reschedule my colonoscopy?
No. Your menstrual period will not interfere with your physician’s ability to complete your procedure

I was given instructions on how to take my prep and there are also instructions on my laxative bottle, which one do I follow?
Only follow the prep instructions that you were given from our office according to the sheet that was given to you. DO NOT FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS ON THE BOTTLE. If you have lost your prep instruction sheet, you may call our office to receive another copy (336) 538-2355.

How do I get the results of my biopsy?
If you have a biopsy or a polyp removed, our office will mail you a letter of the results usually within 2-4 weeks. If after then you have not heard from our office, please call (336) 538-2355.

How long will I need to allow for my procedure?
The amount of time may vary from patient to patient, however, please allow 2-3 hours time from arrival to discharge. The average length of the colonoscopy procedure can be anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour.

I was told I need to pre-register at the hospital, how do I do this?
There are TWO ways to do this. You may pre-register in person at the hospital OR you may call and pre-register over the phone:

1) Go to Admitting/Registration located in the Medical Mall (1st desk on your right)

2) Call (336) 538-8406 to verify your insurance over the phone.

Either way, this MUST be done NO LATER than 5 days prior to your procedure.

If your insurance changes, you will need to notify our office as well as ARMC.

Can I eat or drink anything the morning of my procedure?
If you are scheduled for a MORNING procedure, NOTHING to eat or drink AFTER MIDNIGHT. (The only medications you may take are ones for your heart, blood pressure, Parkinson’s or breathing medications) and must be taken no later than 6AM with just enough water to get them down.

If you are scheduled for an AFTERNOON procedure, you may have clear liquids UNTIL 5 HOURS BEFORE your procedure BUT NO carbonated drinks or broth.

Why does someone need to drive me home?

You are given sedation during the procedure and your reflexes are affected, so you are not allowed to drive home.

Does someone have to stay with me during the procedure?
It is preferred by the Endoscopy lab that someone be with you during the procedure. If you are going to need to call someone for a ride, please give this information to the front desk in the Endo lab.

* Make sure you receive your colonoscopy prep instructions well before your procedure date, and read them completely as soon as you get them. You’ll need to stop certain medications and foods up to a week ahead of time. This is also the time to call your clinician with any questions and to buy the bowel prep she or he has prescribed.