How to Prepare for Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) in NJ

The Day Before Your Endoscopic Ultrasound

  • If you are taking coumadin/plavix/aspirin, it may need to be stopped prior to your procedure. Please ask your doctor. These medications are usually stopped several days before your procedure.
  • Your physician will instruct you as to whether or not you need to take any laxatives or enemas prior to your examination.
  • DO NOT have any solid foods or dairy products after midnight the day before your procedure.
  • Please make sure you have arranged ahead of time for a responsible adult (age 18 or over) to drive you home after the procedure.

The Day of Your Scheduled Endoscopic Ultrasound

  • This procedure is performed at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Somerset, Somerville, NJ – please arrive for your procedure promptly at your assigned time.
  • DO NOT have any solid food or dairy products after midnight the night before your procedure. You may have clear liquids until 4 hours prior to your procedure. (water, broth, clear apple juice, coffee/tea (no milk), ginger ale, etc.)
  • After this time, NOTHING BY MOUTH including water, gum, candy, or mints.
  • You may take your vital medications with a small sip of water.
  • You may brush your teeth.
  • If you are a diabetic, hold (do not take) your oral diabetic medication the morning of the colonoscopy. Take 1/2 of the insulin dose prior to the procedure. Use sugar free drinks for liquids during the prep to avoid increase in blood sugar. Monitor and control your blood sugar closely during your prep to prevent low and high blood sugar, Note: Your procedure may need to be canceled if your blood sugar is over 300mg/dl on arrival.
  • Wear comfortable, loose clothing such as a sweat suit. No metal should be worn including underwire bras or zippers. Leave all jewelry at home including belly rings & tongue piercings.
  • If you are a smoker, it is advised that you do not smoke at least 6 hours before the procedure.
  • Depending on the indication(s) for the procedure, an antibiotic may be given during the procedure.

After Your Endoscopic Ultrasound

  • You must arrange for a responsible adult (18 or over) to drive you home. Going home in a taxi is not allowed.
  • The effects of the anesthesia can persist for 24 hours. After receiving the sedation, you must exercise extreme caution before engaging in any activity that could be harmful to yourself or others (such as driving a car). Do not make any important decisions and do not drink any alcoholic beverages during this time period.
  • Take only the medication that is prescribed by your doctor.
  • After your procedure, you may have anything you’d like to eat or drink. You will probably want to start with something light. Please include plenty of fluids. Avoid items that cause gas such as sodas and salads.
  • If your procedure required the placement of a metal clip, you cannot have an MRI for 30 days.

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Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) in New Jersey

At Digestive Healthcare Center, we take each patient’s unique situation and needs into account when crafting personalized care plans. If your gastroenterologist at DHC has determined that an endoscopic ultrasound is needed, we will ensure that you feel comfortable and informed about the procedure and how to prepare. We are proud to provide compassionate and comprehensive gastroenterology services at our three offices in Hillsborough, Somerville, and Warren, NJ. To learn more about how we can help you live a healthier and more comfortable life, or to schedule an appointment, please contact us today.