Pre-Op Instructions

Pre-Op instructions for our most common procedures

Prior to any procedure, North Shore Gastroenterology will provide you with pre-operative instructions. However, here are basic instructions for two of our most common procedures that can help you prepare:

Upper Endoscopy (EGD)

Before you arrive for the procedure, make sure you have a driver who can take you home after your appointment. You will not be discharged after the procedure unless this person is available to accompany you. This is because your judgment may be impaired due to sedation. The entire procedure appointment may take a few hours, so advise your driver they will need to remain at our facility for the duration of your visit.

Ask your health care provider for specific instructions if you take a blood thinner or oral anti-thrombin inhibitors. Also, discuss other medications you take before your exam to determine if any adjustments need to be made. Tell your gastroenterologist if you are pregnant, have a heart, lung or kidney condition, or if you have had a heart valve replacement. Diabetics, please should contact your prescriber as insulin or oral medication may need to be adjusted the day before and the day of the procedure.

One day before your procedure:

Read through the information provided by North Shore
You may have your normal diet.
Nothing to eat 8 hours before your procedure.
Nothing to drink 4 hours before your procedure.

The day of your upper endoscopy:

Stop eating solid foods eight hours before your procedure.
You can take your regular morning medicines with four ounces of water up to four hours prior to your procedure.
Bring a list of your current medicines – including any over-the-counter medicines – with you to your appointment.

Colonoscopy

Please notify our office if you are taking blood thinning medication or are diabetic.

You will need to undergo bowel prep to empty your colon prior to the procedure. Your doctor will provide you with specific instructions and let you know if or when you should adjust or stop any other medications you take.

In general, you will need to maintain a clear liquid diet throughout the day prior to your procedure. Clear liquids are those you can see through. Avoid red or purple clear liquids. You may have clear liquids up until four hours before your arrival for the procedure.

Prior to arriving for your colonoscopy, make arrangements to have someone drive you home following the procedure. Since colonoscopy involves sedation, you will not be allowed to leave our facility unaccompanied.