In this guide
7 min readProcedure Guide
Good bowel preparation is essential for a useful colonoscopy. Poor preparation can hide polyps, inflammation or bleeding sources and may require repeat testing.
Key Takeaways
- Seeds and high-fiber foods close to procedure
- Heavy oily meals
- Ignoring clear liquid advice
- Eating after fasting time
- Not finishing prep
Diet mistakes
Patients may accidentally eat foods that leave residue in the colon.
- Seeds and high-fiber foods close to procedure
- Heavy oily meals
- Ignoring clear liquid advice
- Eating after fasting time
Bowel prep mistakes
Timing and completion of laxative solution matter.
- Not finishing prep
- Taking prep too early or too late
- Not drinking enough clear fluids
- Stopping because stool looks partly clear
Medicine mistakes
Diabetes medicines, insulin, BP medicines and blood thinners need specific instructions from the doctor.
Attendant and recovery
If sedation is planned, come with an adult attendant and avoid driving that day.