Colonoscopy Preparation

You will receive separate instructions for cleaning out the colon prior to the exam. It is VERY IMPORTANT to read and understand these directions several days prior to the exam date. Do not eat, drink, smoke, use lozenges, or chew gum after midnight the day of your exam. If your procedure is scheduled after noon, refer to the bowel prep instruction sheet. If you take any heart, blood-pressure, or breathing medication, take them with a sip of water prior to your exam. IF YOU TAKE ASPIRIN, COUMADIN, PLAVIX, TICLID, OR ANY OTHER BLOOD-THINNER BY A DOCTOR’S ORDER, PLEASE LET US KNOW. THESE MEDICATIONS USUALLY ARE STOPPED PRIOR TO THE EXAM AND YOU MAY NEED TO GET SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS. YOUR PROCEDURE MAY BE CANCELLED DUE TO RISK OF BLEEDING IF SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS ARE NOT FOLLOWED. The scheduling nurse at Hershey Endoscopy Center should have given you specific instructions on how to take your medications prior to the exam. If you have any questions please call us at 717-531-1318. We will be happy to review the information with you.

For questions about the prep after 4:30 PM: Please call 717-531-8521 and ask for the GI Attending physician on call.