How to Prepare a Patient for a Sigmoidoscopy
A patient who has to undergo a sigmoidoscopy exam has to take some necessary step in order to ensure that the colon and rectum is clear. Having a clean and clear system will make the exam less cumbersome, and help the medical provider come up with an accurate diagnosis.
Materials
- Laxative
- Enema kit
- Clear liquids such as tea, broth
- Discuss the procedure with your medical provider and make sure he answers all the questions you may have about the procedure. This eliminates any stress and anxiety you may have before the procedure.
- Drink only clear liquids 24 hours before the procedure. Clear liquids you can drink include tea, plain coffee and broth. Do not eat anything after midnight.
- Buy and take a laxative. Generally, your health care provider will recommend a laxative you can take such as magnesium citrate. If not, there are various laxatives you can purchase in either pill or liquid form at your local pharmacy.
- Buy an enema kit if your doctor recommends one. You can purchase the kit at your favorite grocery store or local pharmacy. Follow the manufacturer's direction and use the kit the night before the exam or several hours prior to the procedure. In some instances, a doctor may recommend you use an enema kit a couple hours prior to the sigmoidoscopy procedure. This is to ensure that all feces at the bottom of the colon are removed.
- Advise your doctor of any medications you may be taking. This includes herbal supplements and vitamins especially if they contain iron your doctor will most likely ask you to modify your medication intake or may suggest not taking them until after the procedure. Do not take any aspirin or ibuprofen 24 hours before the procedure without guidance from your health care provider to avoid any negative interaction with the procedure.
- Take a family member or friend with you for the procedure. Some health care providers will not release you if you do not have someone to take you home after the procedure.