The Essential Guide To Preparing For Your Colonoscopy In OKC
Colon cancer rates in Oklahoma are higher than the national average due to factors like limited healthcare access, lifestyle choices, and risk factors such as obesity and smoking. Efforts are underway to increase screening and promote healthy habits to reduce the impact of this disease. Are you from OKC and dreading the idea of a colon cancer screening? While the procedure itself might not be the most exciting prospect, proper preparation can make a noticeable difference. Learn the essential tips and tricks for navigating this important screening with ease. Get ready to tackle your colonoscopy in OKC with confidence!
Considerations For Scheduling Your Colonoscopy
Procedure Timing: While an early morning colonoscopy may appear convenient, consider the timing for the preparatory medication. The second dose needs to be taken 6-8 hours before the procedure, possibly requiring late-night administration to ensure effective cleansing.
Choosing the Day: Select the day for your colonoscopy with the previous day’s commitments in mind. You’ll need to adhere to a clear liquid diet and start the prep medication in the afternoon, limiting your mobility and proximity to a restroom.
Preparing for Your Colonoscopy Procedure
Collecting Your Colonoscopy Prescription: Right after your colonoscopy is scheduled, pick up the prep kit prescribed by your healthcare provider. It has a long shelf life, so early collection is beneficial.
Choosing the Right Prep Method: There are various prep methods for a colonoscopy, from high to low-volume liquid options. Discuss these with your doctor to find the most suitable one for your needs.
Reviewing Pre-Procedure Guidelines: Once your colonoscopy is booked, you’ll receive detailed instructions, possibly including a video and dietary changes such as a low-residue diet starting a few days before the procedure. It’s crucial to follow these guidelines closely.
Organizing Pre-Procedure Calendar: Mark all important dates related to diet changes and medication on your calendar to ensure you’re fully prepared without any last-minute issues.
Securing Time Off for the Procedure: Request at least two days off— one for the day before the colon cancer screening to manage the diet and prep and another for the day off to recover comfortably.
Planning Post-Procedure Transportation: Arrange in advance for someone to drive you home post-colonoscopy, as you’ll be under anesthesia. Ensure the clinic has your driver’s contact details beforehand.
Understanding Your Insurance Benefits: Confirm with your insurance provider whether the colonoscopy is covered as a preventive screening or as a diagnostic procedure, which can influence your financial responsibility. Also, check if there are specific provisions for anesthesia coverage.
Diet Preparation Of Low-Residue And Clear Liquid Options
Definition Of Low-Residue Diet
A low-residue diet minimizes fiber intake to ease bowel cleansing for procedures like colonoscopies. Reducing fiber results in less stool formation, streamlining the prep process by decreasing intestinal waste. The duration for this diet varies; some doctors recommend starting three days before the procedure, while others suggest just one day. Adhering to your healthcare provider’s specific instructions is essential for effective bowel preparation.
Foods To Avoid In Low-Residue Diet
Nuts, seeds, and legumes
Whole grains
Leafy greens and salads
Broccoli and corn
Dried fruit
Fried foods
Meats with gristle
Chocolate and alcohol
Fruit with seeds
Popcorn
Highly spiced foods
Beans and legumes
Mustard and hummus
High-fiber foods like oatmeal
Garlic
Limit consumption of dairy
Foods To Enjoy On A Low-Residue Diet:
White bread,
English muffins
Plain Bagels
Refined Pasta
Cream of wheat or grits
Smooth sauces and dressings
Cooked or canned vegetables without seeds
Cheese (in moderation)
Lean meats or fish (not fried)
Eggs (not fried)
Bananas, peaches, pumpkins, and apricots (without peels)
Applesauce
Soft potatoes (not fried and without skin)
Avocados
White rice
Rice noodles and ramen
Saltines and puffed rice
Smooth nut butter
Broth
Tofu
Butter
Frozen desserts (avoiding chocolate or nuts)
What Is A Clear Liquid Diet?
A clear liquid diet includes only transparent liquids and foods that turn liquid at room temperature, aimed at minimizing digestive strain and maintaining hydration. This diet is crucial for clearing the stomach and intestines before medical procedures like a colonoscopy. It’s vital to follow your doctor’s specific guidelines closely, particularly avoiding liquids that are red, blue, or purple, as these colors can hinder visibility during the procedure.
Here Are Some Permissible Items On A Clear Liquid Diet:
Coffee without cream
Tea
Light-colored juices without pulp, such as apple, white cranberry, and white grape
Light-colored sports drinks
Coconut water
Clear gelatin (avoid red or blue)
Popsicles without fruits or cream
Clear broths like chicken, vegetable, or beef (bone broth can be used if strained)
Light-colored sodas
Flavored waters
Sparkling water
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
Mastering Your Clear Liquid Diet Day
Ensure you drink something every hour or when hunger strikes. This can help manage feelings of hunger throughout the day.
Take your time with each drink, especially since your sense of taste might be heightened. This can make even simple drinks like coffee more enjoyable due to their distinct flavor.
Avoid work and usual activities. Keeping your energy expenditure low is crucial due to the reduced calorie intake on this day.
Manage Mealtime for Others: If you have family members eating at home, consider arranging for them to eat out, order food, or use leftovers. This prevents the need to cook and face food you cannot consume.
Engage in light exercise only, such as a gentle walk. Avoid strenuous activities to conserve energy.
Stick to flavors you enjoy. Avoid making the day harder by consuming items you dislike, such as certain jellos or nutritional drinks that might not taste pleasant.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Trying to handle too much can lead to exhaustion, especially on a day when your body is already running low on fuel.
Medication Preparation For Colonoscopy
Review Preparation Instructions Early: A week before the colonoscopy, examine the medication instructions carefully. Mark important preparation times on your calendar to avoid last-minute confusion.
Commence Mixing Process: Begin the mixing process two days prior to your colonoscopy. Start by filling a large jug with lukewarm water to dissolve the powdered medication.
Manage the Jug Weight: The jug can become surprisingly heavy once filled. It may be helpful to fill it halfway, shake to mix, and then add more water. Consider enlisting help for shaking if the jug becomes too cumbersome.
Ensure Even Distribution: Thoroughly mix the medication to prevent any uneven distribution. Proper mixing ensures that the medication’s consistency is uniform, avoiding a thicker concentration towards the end of the jug.
Chill if Required: After mixing, place the jug or containers in the refrigerator if the preparation instructions specify cooling. This step is often recommended to improve the taste of the medication.
Your Bathroom Setup For Colonoscopy Prep
Set up multiple accessible bathrooms if available. Consider proximity to both the kitchen for continuous hydration and a comfortable resting area.
Prioritize a bathroom close to where you’ll be spending the most time, such as near the kitchen, to minimize discomfort during the preparation phase.
Ensure you have an ample supply of toilet paper and wet wipes. Include entertainment options like books or a tablet with a stand to help pass the time comfortably.
Assemble a comfort kit for each bathroom you might use. Suggestions for the kit include:
Extra underwear
Wet wipes
Gloves
Extra rolls of toilet paper
Maxi pads for cleanliness
Diaper rash cream to soothe the skin
Cleaning wipes for the toilet
Air freshener to maintain a pleasant environment
Effective Strategies For Colonoscopy Preparation
Start drinking the preparation solution in the afternoon, as instructed, typically around 3 PM. Follow each dose with a walk to aid digestion, even if it’s just between the kitchen and the bathroom.
Counter the salty taste of the prep solution by chasing it with a flavored drink like apple juice to make the experience more tolerable.
Set a timer for regular intervals (every 10-15 minutes) to keep up with the medication schedule. Keep moving as much as possible to facilitate the process.
Use over-ear headphones and set up an entertainment station with an iPad for distraction. If you experience chills, consider using a heating pad for comfort.
Maintain hydration by drinking water consistently throughout the day, aiming for at least 12 glasses.
The objective of the preparation is to achieve clear, tea-colored stools. Continue consuming the prep solution until the entire jug is finished, as per the instructions.
After completing the medication, allow some time to relax and recover. Use soothing creams like diaper rash cream if experiencing discomfort.
Complete the final part of the preparation in accordance with the timing of your colonoscopy. If the procedure is in the afternoon, the second half of the prep might be scheduled for the morning of the procedure.
To avoid plumbing issues from excessive toilet paper use, consider disposing of lightly used paper in a lined trash can, especially if you’re experiencing frequent movements.
Your Partner For Successful Colonoscopy In OKC
Worried about your upcoming colonoscopy in OKC? Screen The City can help! Our expert tips and resources will guide you through the preparation process with ease. Visit our website for more information.
**Disclaimer: This blog content does not intend to offer a doctor’s advice and mentions no relationship between any patient and the care provider.
