Preparation for the test

For this examination to be successful and for the endoscopist to have a clear view, your stomach and bowel need to be as empty as possible so it can be seen clearly. 

It is important to follow the advice given about bowel preparation.

 • As part of your preparation you will be given a laxative. Please   refer to the Instruction for Bowel Preparation leaflet enclosed. 

If the bowel is not sufficiently empty the whole procedure may have to be cancelled and repeated on another occasion. This is due to the high possibility of the endoscopist missing important signs. 

(It is believed that those patients who have a bowel cancer diagnosed within two years of a previous colonic examination have probably had it missed at the time of the original examination - this scenario is now labelled Post Colonoscopy Colorectal Cancer Syndrome PCCCS).

 • For this procedure it is also important to stop drinking two hours before your appointment time. 

 • If you are a diabetic or haemophiliac, please phone the Endoscopy Unit booked for your procedure for specific advice. 

• If you are taking warfarin, clopidogrel, or other blood thinning medications please inform us at least one week before the test. 

• The test may be affected if you are taking certain medications. We recommend that you stop taking the following drugs one week before the test unless you have been diagnosed with an ulcer or Barrett’s Oesophagus.

Acid suppressing drugs cimetidine (Tagamet), ranitidine (Zantac), nizatidine (Axid), lansoprazole (Zoton), omeprazole (Losec), pantoprazole (Protium), rabeprazole (Pariet), esomeprazole (Nexium), Fanotidine (Pepcid).

Iron tablets, stool bulking agents (Fybogel, Regulan, Proctofibe) should be stopped one week before your examination. You may continue to take other medications as normal.

• Please bring a list of any medications you are currently taking. 

• If you have any queries about your medication please ring Endoscopy.

• It is especially important to remember to bring any asthma inhalers or angina sprays with you.

• If you have a pacemaker or ICD, please inform us at least one week before the test. 

• Please remove your nail polish and all types of false nails before attending for your procedure.

• Do not bring any valuables to the unit.

• Please bring with you your dressing gown, slippers, and something to read during your stay. 

• Patients find spare underwear useful.