How to Dispel Fright About Having A Colonoscopy

For any one of a myriad of reasons, your personal physician may decide to schedule you for an examination considered a surgical procedure called a colonoscopy. If so, stay calm because this procedure isn't as tragic as you think. The colonoscopy usually takes place in a health clinic or hospital environment. Once you and your physician agree that the procedure needs to be done, a member of your doctor's office staff will help you set up an appointment for a consultation with a specialist, called a gastroenterologist, who will be performing your colonoscopy. In order to make the entire procedure less stressful, it'll be helpful for you to fully understand and be prepared for each step of the process.

Things You'll Need

• A friend to drive you to and from the clinic or hospital.
• Full knowledge of what the procedure requires.
• Ability to follow through with directions.
• Good attitude.
• A pre-determined place to eat, after the procedure.

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Instructions

• 1

  Discuss your work and personal schedule with a member of the gastroenterologist's office staff. This person will help you select a time and place where your procedure will be done and at a time of day that will most convenient for you. You'll be given oral and written instructions, as well as a medical prescription . It's important to follow this information very carefully.

• 2

  Visit your pharmacy and have your prescription filled. The pharmacist may review the "directions for use" with you to make sure you get the most benefit from it. Follow these instructions to the letter.

• 3

  Arrive at the clinic or hospital well in advance of your scheduled appointment. Complete necessary paper-work with the receptionist and make yourself comfortable while waiting to be called. This is a good time to look over the daily paper, or read part of the book you've brought along with you.

• 4

  Prepare for pre-colonoscopy work to be done, such as blood-pressure check, heart rate, oxygen monitor etc. Make yourself as comfortable as possible in your assigned room and have your reading materials nearby. Keep your mind occupied and before you realize it, it'll be time for your procedure.

• 5

  Waiting for the effects of the drugs and/or medicines to wear off, after your procedure, takes time. So ask for a cup of coffee or other beverage, read, have a snooze, listen to your ipod or visit with a friend. Someone will be checking on you periodically and soon, you'll be free to leave.

• 6

  Go to a pre-determined restaurant. Take your time, eat slowly and enjoy a full breakfast. At this point, you may ask yourself what it was about having a colonoscopy, that caused you any concern? And now you'll know what to reply when anyone asks you how to dispel fright about having a colonoscopy.