Colonoscopy Preparation

Preparing for Your Colonoscopy at Washington Health Medical Group

A colonoscopy is a routine screening procedure used to check for tumors, bleeding, inflammation, colon polyps, or ulcers in the inner lining of the colon and rectum. A long, narrow tube called a “colonoscope” is inserted to examine the patient’s large intestine. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions when preparing for a colonoscopy procedure.

Your doctor may ask you to prepare by:

• Observing a careful diet – In the days leading up to your colonoscopy, begin switching to a low-fiber diet. The day before your appointment, stick to a clear liquid diet, choosing only broth, water, black coffee, black tea, clear juices such as apple and white grape, popsicles, Jell-O, sports drinks, Italian ice, bouillon, and so forth. Avoid colored dyes, including red, blue, and purple dyes. The day of the colonoscopy, stick to the clear liquid diet. Don’t eat or drink in the two hours prior to your procedure.
• Drink bowel prep – Your doctor will also instruct you to drink a liquid that clears your bowels completely. The preferred procedure involves drinking half of the prep the night prior to your procedure and the other half six hours before the procedure. Ask your doctor for specific instructions.