Colonoscopy Preparation Instructions
A successful colonoscopy starts with a successful bowel preparation.
Inadequate prep is associated with lower polyp detection rate and repeating the procedure at a shorter interval due to low visibility. A clean bowel will ensure the endoscopist can clearly see and remove polyps in your colon. Please review our step by step instructions below:
02.
Seven (7) days before your appointment:
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STOP taking iron supplements (if applicable).
03.
Four (4) days before your appointment:
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STOP eating ALL seeds and nuts. Including: multigrain breads, flax seeds, fruits with seeds (tomatoes, cucumbers, grapes, watermelon seeds, all berries, etc.)
04.
One (1) day before your appointment:
YOU MUST REMAIN ON CLEAR FLUIDS ONLY. NO SOLID FOOD.
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1:00PM: Take 4 Dulcolax tablets with water
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5:30PM-8:30PM: Drink three (3) litres of PegLyte (see instructions on container).
05.
Day of your Colonoscopy Appointment:
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- Five (5) hours before your appointment: Drink the fourth (4th) litre of Peglyte
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- Four (4) hours before your appointment: You must stop drinking ALL fluids
06.
Make sure you:
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Wear comfortable clothes
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Avoid wearing nail polish or valuable jewellery
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Bring your OHIP card
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Bring your cell phone
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Bring juice (Vitamin Water/Gatorade) to drink after the procedure to restore electrolytes
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Have a driver over 18 y/o to pick you up from the appointment
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(Optional) Bring an extra pair of underwear
