The Colonoscopy Experience - Step-By-Step - Preparation, Procedure, and Aftercare

Sep 27, 2026

Uploaded by Ezra

Step-by-step guidance for colonoscopy preparation and care, covering the bowel prep timeline, managing diarrhea and cramps, and practical tips like staying near a toilet and using a straw to drink the solution. Instructions also address day-of logistics, consent and medication review, the process during the exam, and recovery expectations. Includes billing considerations for screening versus polyp removal or biopsy, driver and clothing requirements, and a low-fiber diet with clear foods to eat and avoid.

LanguageEnglish

CategoryHealthcare

FormatPDF

Pages8

Reading Time20 min

AccessFree to download

Preparing for your colonoscopy

Billing

You must have a driver with you at the procedure

Before your procedure

During your procedure

After your procedure

Low fiber diet

Food guide (OK to eat / Do NOT eat)

The Colonoscopy Experience, Step-By-Step [SamaritanHealthcare.com](SamaritanHealthcare.com) 1. Preparing for your colonoscopy: Plan for the prep time: Plan for a few hours the evening before and morning of your procedure to drink the prep and evacuate your bowels. Plan to bein a personal space, close to a bathroom. Diarrhea and urgency will usually begin 15 minutes to 4 hours after you begin your prep. • Take the day off: It is recommended that you take the day off work on the day of your procedure. You should not make any important decisions for the rest of the day following the procedure. You should not drive for the rest of the day. • Pick up your prep at least three to five days before your procedure. Colon cleansing tips: 1. Stay near a toilet! You will have diarrhea, which can be quite sudden. This is normal. 2. Try drinking the solution with a straw. It may be easier to tolerate. 3. Rarely, people may have nausea or vomiting with the prep. If this occurs, give yourself a 30-minute break, rinse your mouth or brush your teeth, then continue drinking the prep solution. 4. You may have bowel cramps until the stool has flushed from your colon (this may take 2 to 4 hours and sometimes much longer) . 2. Billing: • Please note that screening colonoscopies are often not subject to deductibles, co-pays or co-insurance. We will always try to bill a screening colonoscopy as a screening colonoscopy. • However, if a polyp needs to be removed or biopsies need to be done during the colonoscopy, then by law we are obligated to use the code for “colonoscopy with polypectomy” or “colonoscopy with biopsy.” In such cases, deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance may apply. Please consult with your insurance company for details. You must have a driver with you at the procedure: • You must have a driver who is 18 years or older present at check in and discharge. If you do not have a driver with you at check in we will reschedule your appointment. • Your entire procedure may take 3 to 4 hours to complete. Please tell your driver that they must remain at the colonoscopy appointment during your entire visit. • Please leave all jewelry and personal items at home. If you bring jewelry to your appointment, we may have to ask you to remove it. • Please do not wear contact lenses. 3. Before your procedure: You will be informed of the procedure risks and sign a consent form. You will go over your health history and medications upon admissions. You will put on a hospital gown and an IV will be placed in your arm for fluids and medication. If you have had trouble with IV placement please arrive an additional 15 minutes early. 4. During your procedure: You will be placed on your left side. You will be given medication through your IV to help you relax and make you more comfortable and drowsy. The doctor will insert the scope into your rectum to look at the lining of your rectum and colon. Air will be inserted into your colon to allow the doctor to better visualize the lining of your large intestine. Your body will want to expel the air, do not try to hold in the air as this may cause discomfort. Feel free to expel as much air as possible. You may feel mild cramping during the procedure. If it becomes worse you will be able to tell the doctor and more medication can be given. Most patients do not remember part or all of the procedure due to the medications. The procedure lasts approximately 30-60 minutes. You will then be taken to the recovery area. 5. After your procedure: You will remain in the recovery area until you are ready for discharge (usually after 30 minutes) . You may feel bloating or mild abdominal cramping. Expelling air in your colon will help you feel more comfortable. You will be discharged when you are alert and stable. The doctor or nurse will speak to you about your plan of care. Remember you must have an escort to drive or accompany you home. You may return to work the morning after your

FAQs

How should I prepare for the bowel prep before my colonoscopy?

Plan for a few hours the evening before and the morning of the procedure to drink the prep. Begin several days ahead (at least three to five days before) and choose a personal space close to a bathroom.

What should I expect during and right after the colonoscopy?

During the procedure you will be placed on your left side and given IV medication to help you relax. The exam typically lasts about 30–60 minutes; afterward you stay in recovery until you are alert and stable, often after about 30 minutes.

What foods are allowed on a low-fiber diet before the procedure?

Allowed options include refined/white-grain breads and pastas, dairy such as milk and cheese, tender meats and eggs, soft canned or cooked fruit without seeds or skins, and potatoes without skin.

Sep 27, 2026

Uploaded by Ezra