Instructions for Preparation for Afternoon Colonoscopy

Lavage method using Colyte Preparation Kit. This kit may be purchased at any pharmacy.

An absolutely clean colon is necessary for a successful examination. Please follow these instructions carefully.

*** No aspirin or aspirin-containing products for 1 (one) week prior to the examination.

(Tylenol is the only acceptable pain medication.) 

DAY BEFORE EXAMINATION

Morning

1. Have a normal breakfast.

Midday

1. Have a normal lunch.

Evening

1. Have a light dinner. Avoid fruits and vegetables. No solid food after 8:00 p.m.

2. Mix Colyte according to instructions and refrigerate.

MORNING OF TEST

1. No solid food. Have a clear broth or JELL-O® (not red) for early breakfast. No dairy products.

2. Begin drinking Colyte at 7 a.m. Drink a large glass (about 8 oz.) every 15 minutes. It is best to drink the whole glass rapidly rather than sipping small amounts continuously.

3. Continue drinking until the bottle is empty.

4. Bowel movements usually occur within 4 hours after the first glass of Colyte. They will continue periodically for approximately two to four hours after you finish drinking the last glass. By this time, the stool liquid should be clear.

5. Feelings of bloating and/or nausea and chilliness are common after the first few glasses of Colyte because of the large volume of fluid ingested. This is temporary, however, and will disappear once bowel movements begin.

6. Do not eat any solid food until after your examination
that day.

7. All medications can be taken at 6 a.m. (except diabetes or blood thinners, e.g. Coumadin, Insulin, etc. – discuss these with your doctor.)

YOU WILL NEED A RIDE HOME.
THIS IS HOSPITAL REGULATION.

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