Preparing for your Procedure

Pay careful attention to the following instructions to help ensure your comfort and reduce the possibility of complications.

  • Follow your Endoscopist prep instructions given to you at your consult. If you have any questions regarding your prep procedure, call your Endoscopist or his/her nurse to review those instructions and provide you with the needed clarity.
  • Do not eat or drink anything (including water) 6 hours prior to your procedure, unless otherwise instructed by your Endoscopist. Undigested food in the stomach can cause complications; your procedure is likely to be postponed or cancelled if you forget to follow this instruction.
  • Teeth may be brushed but do not swallow water.
  • If you wear dentures or glasses, you may be asked to remove them. Please bring a case with you.
  • We also suggest that you wear casual, loose clothing. During your procedure, you will wear a patient gown provided by the center.
  • Be sure to talk to your Endoscopist about any daily medication you are currently taking, especially for heart, diabetes or blood pressure problems. Be sure to mention any over-the-counter drugs such as Aspirin, Bufferin, Nuprin, Advil, Motrin or any dietary/herbal supplements such as fish oil. Your Endoscopist will give you instruction about taking any medication prior to your procedure.
  • If you are required to take antibiotics prior to your procedure for any reason, you must obtain a prescription from that ordering physician.
  • If you are on any type of blood thinning medication, you must discuss directives regarding those medications with your Endoscopist.
  • If you have a heart stent, notify your Endoscopist.
  • Arrange for responsible adult (18 or over) to drive you home following your procedure. You should expect to be in the Endoscopy Center for 1 to 2 hours. The responsible adult will need to stay at the Endoscopy Center while you are having the procedure done.
  • If you experience any health changes between consult and the day of your procedure, notify your Endoscopist. Report even minor changes, such as an elevated temperature, cough, or cold.
  • If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, please notify your physician and the nurse caring for you. Anesthesia and medication may be harmful to the developing fetus.
  • Bring your insurance card(s) and any forms your Endoscopist requests. This will facilitate the admitting process.
  • Leave jewelry and other valuable items at home for safekeeping.

Day of Procedure

Arrival

It is important you arrive at College Park Endoscopy Center 30 minutes before your procedure unless otherwise instructed by facility scheduling. Please remember to bring your photo ID, insurance card, and accepted method of payment for any money due on the day of your procedure.

After Procedure

In the recovery room, you will be under close observation by recovery room nurses. We encourage doctors to talk to a family member/friend upon completion of your procedure and it is, therefore, important for this person to remain in the building.

Your Endoscopist may provide post-procedure instructions, and College Park Endoscopy Center will provide a written summary of these instructions.

If you had any anesthesia/pain medication, avoid the following for 24 hours:

  • Driving, operating vehicles/equipment/machinery
  • Signing important papers
  • Making important decisions
  • Drinking alcoholic beverages

Should you experience any unexpected complications or concerns, contact your Endoscopist or his/her designee. If you experience an emergency, call 911.