Procedure Prep
How to Prepare for Your Procedure
Proper preparation is one of the most important steps you can take before your procedure. When you follow your prep instructions carefully, your provider can get a clearer, more accurate view, which means better results, fewer repeat visits, and a safer experience overall. Please download and review the instructions for your specific procedure below, and don't hesitate to call us with any questions before your appointment.
How to Prepare for Your Procedure
General Reminders for All Procedures
Regardless of which procedure you're having, please keep the following in mind:
- You will need a driver. Most procedures involve sedation, so you will not be permitted to drive yourself home. Please arrange for a responsible adult to accompany you and remain available for the duration of your visit.
- Plan for your full appointment block. Most visits last 2–3 hours from check-in to discharge, though the procedure itself is typically much shorter. Please do not schedule other commitments immediately after.
- Arrive 15–30 minutes early. This gives our staff time to complete check-in, review your health history, and answer any last-minute questions before your procedure begins.
- Bring a valid photo ID and your insurance card.
- Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid jewelry, contact lenses, or anything that may need to be removed before your procedure.
- Leave valuables at home. We are not responsible for personal belongings during your visit.
A Note on Medications
Please review your prep instructions carefully for medication guidance specific to your procedure. If you take prescription medications and have questions about what to continue or pause, call our office before your appointment at (704) 908-6832. Do not stop any medication without first consulting your provider.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Procedure
During your procedure: Most GI procedures are performed under sedation, so you will be comfortable and relaxed. Your care team will monitor you closely throughout.
After your procedure: You will recover in our post-procedure area until the sedation wears off. A nurse will review your results and aftercare instructions with you and your driver before you are discharged. You should plan to rest for the remainder of the day.
Preparing for a Colonoscopy
The course you take to prepare for your colonoscopy will depend on your gastroenterologist, but all patients should prepare to cleanse the bowel completely beforehand and arrange for a ride home – as driving is not allowed for 24 hours following the procedure.
Your northeast digestive health center provider will provide specific prep instructions at your consultation prior to procedure. These are the most common preparations prescribed.
Preparing for an Endoscopy
Endoscopic procedures vary in terms of invasiveness, uses and capabilities. Your doctor will provide prep instructions prior to your procedure. The following are procedure prep instructions for the primary types of endoscopy used by Northeast Digestive Health Center’s gastroenterologists:
Preparing for a Pill Cam Colonoscopy
The course you take to prepare for your colonoscopy will depend on your gastroenterologist, but all patients should prepare to cleanse the bowel completely beforehand and arrange for a ride home – as driving is not allowed for 24 hours following the procedure.
Your Northeast Digestive Health Center provider will provide specific prep instructions at your consultation. The three primary courses ordered for colonoscopy procedure preparation are:
Need to Reschedule?
If you need to cancel or reschedule your procedure, please contact us at least 48 hours in advance so we can offer your appointment time to another patient. Last-minute cancellations are especially important for colonoscopies and other procedures that require advance pre-scheduling. Early rescheduling helps you avoid having to repeat the prep process unnecessarily.
Call (704) 908-6832 to Reschedule