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How to Prepare for Colonoscopy in NJ
Colonoscopy enables your physician at Digestive Healthcare Center to examine the lining of the colon. This test is the gold standard for colorectal cancer screening and is used to detect and prevent colorectal cancer through the removal of polyps. For this test to be completed properly and accurately, there are several steps you must follow to prepare. Our team at Digestive Healthcare Center will make sure you have all of the information needed to prepare for your colonoscopy. We encourage all patients to stay up to date on their screenings and to reach out to our team if you have any questions or concerns about colonoscopy or your digestive health.
The Day Before Your Colonoscopy in NJ
Being informed about how to prepare for your colonoscopy is extremely important because it ensures that your gastroenterologist at DHC will be able to properly visualize the colon. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any medications you should stop taking in the days leading up to your procedure. Read DHC’s complete written instructions for colonoscopy preparation and contact our office with any questions you may have. Certain patients may be asked to follow alternative bowel preparation instructions. Only use the alternative prep methods if your doctor recommends it.
The day before your colonoscopy, you may have a low-residue breakfast before 9:00 AM. This should be strictly limited to eggs, milk, or toast. At 9:00 AM, you should begin and remain on a strict clear liquid diet. You cannot have any food until after your colonoscopy the following day. You cannot have any red liquids during this time because they can interfere with the accuracy of the exam. Clear liquids include sports drinks, water, coffee or tea (without cream or milk), clear broth, or apple juice. Please see the full instructions for other examples of clear liquids, or contact our office if you are unsure about what you can drink. Follow the remaining preparation instructions for the remainder of the day:
- 3:00 PM – Take 2 Dulcolax pills by mouth with water.
- Between 3:00 and 6:00 PM – Mix the entire bottle of Miralax powder with 64 oz. of Gatorade, Powerade, or Propel (no red).
- You should drink one 8 oz. glass of the Miralax mixture every 30 to 60 minutes until the entire 64 oz. is finished. A straw may make this easier. If you feel nauseous or vomit, take a 30-minute break before continuing.
- 9:00 PM – Take the last two Dulcolax pills by mouth with water.
- Note: Even if your bowel movements are clear, it is important to finish the entire prep as directed.
Alternative Preparation Instructions and Resources
Your doctor may suggest a different preparation process than the one detailed above. See our alternative colonoscopy preparation instructions below:
- Magnesium Citrate Preparation for Colonoscopy – PDF instructions
- Miralax/Gatorade Preparation for Colonoscopy – PDF instructions
- Half Lytely Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy
- TriLyte Bowel Preparation for Colonoscopy
- Suprep Preparation for Colonoscopy
- Colyte Preparation for Colonoscopy
Instrucciones en español – Preparación de intestino (Bowel Prep)
The Day of Your Scheduled Colonoscopy at Digestive Healthcare Center
On the day of your colonoscopy in NJ, you should continue drinking clear liquids. You must remain hydrated during your preparation. 4½ hours before your colonoscopy start time, drink the entire 10 oz. bottle of Magnesium citrate. Within 4 hours of your appointment start time, take nothing by mouth, including water. Critical medications can be taken up until 4 hours before your start time. You must arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure. Please bring your insurance card, photo ID, and current medication list to your appointment. You should wear loose, comfortable clothing and leave all jewelry and valuables at home. Contact lenses should not be worn, and you should not wear any clothing with metal, including zippers and underwire bras.
After Your Colonoscopy Procedure in NJ
After your colonoscopy, your doctor will discuss the results with you. You will be observed in our office until the effects of the sedation have worn off, which could take 30 minutes to two hours. You should take it easy for a day or so after your procedure since the effects of the sedation can last until the following day. It is not uncommon to experience cramping or bloating after the procedure since air was introduced into the colon during the exam. If you had a biopsy or if polyps were removed, your doctor may recommend a special diet for a day or two – we will let you know after the exam if this is necessary. You may experience slight rectal bleeding if polyps were removed. If you have any questions or concerns after returning home, please do not hesitate to reach out to our office.
Recent Blogs
Learn more about all things digestive health and wellness by checking out our recent gastroenterology blogs.
At Digestive Healthcare Center, we want to keep our patients informed about a wide variety of gastrointestinal health conditions that can impact their daily comfort. One such condition is Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), with April designated as Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month. IBS is a very common condition in the United States, and with over […]
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and at Digestive Healthcare Center, we want our patients to be informed about this disease, screening techniques, and how you can get involved to spread awareness and help keep yourself and those around you healthy. Every March (and all year long!), patients, survivors, and caregivers are encouraged to […]
November is Stomach Cancer Awareness Month – Learn More Our gastroenterologists at Digestive Healthcare Center are dedicated to keeping our patients informed about all facets of digestive health, including certain conditions that can cause gastrointestinal symptoms. Stomach cancer, also known as gastric cancer, affects both men and women in the United States. According to the […]
Colonoscopy at Digestive Healthcare Center in Somerset County
Proper preparation is crucial for the completion of a successful colonoscopy. Please follow all instructions given to you by your physician, and contact us with any questions you have. We are proud to provide comprehensive digestive health care and services to patients at our three gastroenterology centers in NJ, with colonoscopies performed at our Hillsborough office and surgical center. To learn more or schedule your appointment, please contact us today.
