Today’s episode is crucial as it addresses your immediate needs upon arriving at the facility, managing pre-procedure anxiety, and ensuring all medical and personal logistics are handled efficiently. We provide in-depth guidance on how to prepare for the check-in, what to discuss with your medical team, and how to stay calm and collected.
Download Resources:
1. Welcome Guide User Sheet
2. Welcome Guide Checklist
Sign up for Colonoscopy Preparation Sms Reminders
www.gutsphere.com
Time Stamps:
00:00 Intro
Arrival and Check-In Process
03:40 What time should I arrive at the facility for my colonoscopy, and does this time allot for any pre-procedure paperwork?
04:20 Where exactly should I go once I arrive at the facility? Is there a specific entrance or check-in area for colonoscopy patients?
05:20 What identification or medical documentation do I need to bring with me?
06:34 How can I communicate any last-minute changes in my health or medication since my last consultation?
Managing Anxiety and Comfort
08:05 If I'm feeling particularly anxious upon arrival, are there resources or staff available to help me manage these feelings?
08:58 What items am I allowed to bring with me for comfort, such as headphones or a small blanket?
For Patients with Chronic Conditions
10:25 Should I bring a list of my current medications and dosages, especially for my chronic conditions, to share with the medical team?
11:39 How will my chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease) be monitored before and during the procedure?
12:24 Is there anything specific I should do upon arrival if I have a condition that could affect anesthesia, like sleep apnea or COPD?
During the Wait
13:08 How long is the wait typically before the procedure starts, and can my accompanying adult stay with me during this time?
13:55 Are there facilities available for my accompanying adult if they have to wait, such as a café or waiting room with Wi-Fi?
Pre-Procedure Preparation
15:49 Will I meet with the gastroenterologist or anesthesiologist before the procedure to discuss any last-minute questions or concerns?
17:21 What type of anesthesia will be used, and how will it be administered?
18:49 How should I prepare for the anesthesia, especially if I have had reactions to it in the past?
Post-Procedure Expectations
19:24 Where will I wake up after the procedure, and who will be there when I do?
20:58 How will my immediate post-procedure recovery be monitored, especially concerning my chronic conditions?
21:28 What is the process for getting discharged, and what instructions will I receive for at-home recovery?
Transportation and Recovery
23:25 What instructions should I give my driver for picking me up after the procedure?
Are there any special considerations I should be aware of for the car ride home, such as positioning or comfort adjustments for someone who just underwent a colonoscopy?
References:
Arrival and Check-In Process:
Mayo Clinic - Colonoscopy https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/colonoscopy/about/pac-20393569
Managing Anxiety and Comfort:
Jefferson Health - Managing Expectations and Easing Anxieties https://www.jeffersonhealth.org/your-health/living-well/preparing-for-a-colonoscopy-managing-expectations-and-easing-anxieties
The Iowa Clinic - Calm Your Nerves About Getting a Colonoscopyhttps://www.iowaclinic.com/gastroenterology/6-answers-calm-your-nerves-about-getting-colonoscopy/
Curasia - Comfort Strategies During Colonoscopy https://curasia.com/comfort-strategies-during-colonoscopy-how-to-ease-discomfort/
https://acripc.com/5-tips-for-stress-free-colonoscopy-prep-.htm
For Patients with Chronic Conditions:
Cleveland Clinic - Types of Kits & Instructions https://acripc.com/5-tips-for-stress-free-colonoscopy-prep-.htm
Riverside - Extended Miralax Split Dose Preparation https://www.riverside.edu/-/media/medical-services/documents/gipreparing-for-your-colonoscopy-with-the-extended-miralax-split-dose-preparation-rpol13058-122023.pdf
During the Wait:
MD Anderson Cancer Center - How long does a colonoscopy take? https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/how-long-does-a-colonoscopy-take.h00-159619434.html
Medical News Today - Colonoscopy: Procedure, preparation, side effects, recovery, and more https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/colonoscopy
NHS - What happens on the day https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/colonoscopy/what-happens-on-the-day/
Pre-Procedure Preparation:
Kaiser Permanente - Preparing For Your Colonoscopy https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/washington/get-care/additional-services/gastroenterology/colon-prep
Post-Procedure Expectations:
Verywell Health - Colonoscopy Recovery: Instructions and What to Expect https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-do-after-a-colonoscopy-796903
Medical News Today - Colonoscopy: Procedure, preparation, side effects, recovery, and more https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/colonoscopy
ESHT - Post Procedure Advice following a Colonoscopy https://www.esht.nhs.uk/leaflet/post-procedure-advice-following-a-colonoscopy/
Dr Nimalan Pathma-Nathan - Post Operative Instructions after Colonoscopy https://colorectalspecialist.com.au/procedures/post-operative-instructions-after-colonoscopy/
Top Doctors - What to expect after a colonoscopy? https://www.topdoctors.co.uk/medical-articles/what-to-expect-after-a-colonoscopy
Transportation and Recovery:
Verywell Health - Colonoscopy Recovery: Instructions and What to Expect https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-to-do-after-a-colonoscopy-796903
Healthgrades - Recovery After Colonoscopy: What to Expect https://www.healthgrades.com/right-care/colonoscopy/recovery-after-colonoscopy-what-to-expect
Quartz Mountain - Guidelines For Travel Restrictions Post Colonoscopy https://quartzmountain.org/article/travel-restrictions-after-colonoscopy
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