PROCEDURE FAQs:

May I drink alcohol on my clear liquid diet?

No. Please do not consume any alcoholic beverages while on the clear liquid diet before your procedure.

Will I get the same prep as my friend who recently underwent colonoscopy at Acadiana Surgery Center?

You may receive the same prep as another patient; however, our preps are individualized to your particular condition. Please follow the instructions provided by the nurse.

Has the prep gotten better?

Over the past year, at the request of our patients, we have developed alternative preparation methods for colonoscopy and flexible sigmoidoscopy. We are always looking for ways to make the preps easier for our patients. Preps may vary depending on the individual; however, you should ask the nurse if your condition allows you to receive the modified prep.

Should I take my medication on the day of my procedure?

You may take any heart and/or blood pressure medicine on the day of your procedure. Use only a small amount of water to swallow any pills. Take any other medications after you return home. If you are taking any blood thinners or aspirin, please notify us at the time your procedure is scheduled. This will allow us to plan your care accordingly. If you take insulin, please follow the instructions below.

I am an insulin-dependent diabetic. How should I handle my insulin on the morning of my procedure?

One the day of your procedure, check your blood sugar.
If it is 100 or above -take ½ dose of Insulin
If it is below 100-do not take your Insulin

**Bring your insulin with you to the office on the day of your procedure.

I have asthma. Should I use my inhaler the morning of my procedure?

Yes. Use your inhaler before leaving home, and bring it with you for your procedure.

What do I bring/wear?

Patients are asked not to bring any personal articles of value. However, if you wear glasses, you will need to bring them with you, as there are forms to fill out. You should wear comfortable clothing.

How long will the procedure take?

Times of each procedure vary according to the patient. However, we estimate that you will be here for at least two hours. This includes pre-operative and post-operative care.

Will the procedure be painful?

You will be sedated during your procedure, and most patients do not complain of pain after the procedure.

Can my family be with me during my procedure?

Unfortunately, we cannot allow your family in the procedure room. For privacy reasons, we also cannot allow families in the holding/recovery area, except during discharge. Your family can wait for you in the waiting room and, at your request, they can be informed periodically about your condition.

What happens after my procedure? How will I feel?

Immediately after the procedure, you will be transferred to the Recovery Area, where you will remain for 30 to 45 minutes. Patients are usually awake and alert very quickly after the procedure, without excessive dizziness and virtually no nausea. After your procedure you will probably be hungry, gassy, bloated. You may also have a dry mouth. Immediately after your procedure, the nurse may give you water or juice to help with the dry mouth. The gassy feeling comes from the air that is inserted into your digestive track during your endoscopy, which helps Dr. Stokes see inside your stomach and/or colon. It is best to allow this gas to pass naturally. Because you are not permitted to eat during preparation for your procedure, you will probably feel hungry. When and what you will be allowed to eat after your procedure depends on the procedure performed, and your condition. The nurse will instruct you on diet upon discharge from the center. All of these effects are short-lived (resolve in 24 hours or less), and soon you will be back to your normal routine. Normally, after endoscopy, there is no pain. Any complaints of pain should be reported to your physician or a nurse.

Will someone call me after my procedure?

Yes, a nurse from Acadiana Surgery Center will call you after your procedure. The nurse will ask you how you are feeling, and answer any questions that you may have at that time. Though problems are rare, please bring any problems that occurred after your procedure to the nurse's attention.

What is the recovery time?

Most people can return to work the next day. However, there may be some dietary restrictions, or restrictions on heavy lifting. You will be instructed on things that may need to be avoided in the days following your procedure. You should not drive for 18 hours after the procedure, so please bring someone with you who is able to drive you home after your procedure.

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