How to Prep a 4 Year Old for a Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy is essentially a procedure used to evaluate, diagnose and treat diseases and disorders that plague the lower regions of the digestive system, specifically your large intestines (the colon and the rectum). But, it isn't enough to simply show up for the procedure, you actually need to prepare, even when the patient in question is a child. If you're looking for a method of preparation for a colonoscopy in a youth, the process will vary based on age. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, a 4-year-old will prepare for colonoscopy differently than an 8-year-old.

Things You'll Need

• Fluids
• Magnesium nitrate

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Start giving your 4-year-old an increased amount of fluids, such as orange juice or apple juice, about 3 days prior to the colonoscopy. At this time, there is really no need to make any changes to his diet, so continue feeding him his regular meals.

• 2

  Swap out your child's regular "solid" meals for liquid-based products, like chicken broth, beef broth, orange juice, apple juice, freeze-pops and flavored gelatin, a day and a half prior to the colonoscopy. Make sure that these liquids are not red in color (it can often be confused with blood in the colon), and not dairy-based.

• 3

  Give your child approximately 10 ounces of magnesium citrate the afternoon (around 1:00 or 2:00 p.m.) prior to the colonoscopy. Try to make sure that it takes no more than 15 to 20 minutes to finish the dosage.

• 4

  Give your child another 10 ounces of magnesium citrate about 5 hours after the first dose. Again, make sure that your child drinks the recommended dose within 15 to 20 minutes of the first sip.

• 5

  Pay attention to your child's bowel movements throughout the day (the day prior to the colonoscopy). You'll most likely notice a change in the consistency when bedtime approaches (or upon waking).

• 6

  Stop your child from drinking or eating anything, even freezer pops, 7 to 8 hours prior to his appointment. Depending on your doctor, you may be asked to keep your child away from any liquids (and food) prior to the colonoscopy.

• 7

  Consult with your doctor about any medications that your child is currently taking. He may recommend that your child stops taking any prescription or nonprescription medications until the colonoscopy is completed (certain medication can change the color of the colon).