Preparing for your colonoscopy

Our policy is for every patient to be seen by Dr. Gaeke in the office prior to having any procedures done. An office visit is the best environment for reviewing your past medical and surgical history, performing a physical exam and obtaining detailed information about any current health problems you may be experiencing. You will be given as much time as you need to fully understand the risks and benefits of having a colonoscopy and to ask any and all questions you may have about the procedure. You will also receive take home information about how to properly prepare for your colonoscopy.

The insurance rules regarding preventative services and the payment of “screening” colonoscopies are complex. Payment often differs depending on whether you are having a screening/preventative exam or a diagnostic exam. Do I qualify for a screening colonoscopy?

The Day Before Exam

Drink only clear liquids for breakfast, lunch and supper. Solid foods, milk or milk products are NOT allowed. NO red or purple foods or drinks. Clear liquids include:

Diet or regular soft drinks (no red or purple)
Strained fruit juices without pulp (no red or purple)
Clear broth or bouillon
Gatorade (no red or purple)
Kool-Aid (no red or purple)
Jello (no red or purple)
Popsicles (no red or purple)
Coffee or tea (no milk or creamer)

Take your medications as usual — EXCEPT — no insulin or oral diabetic meds.

Take blood thinners (coumadin, lovenox or aspirin) as usual unless
instructed otherwise.

Begin prep solution as prescribed. Individual responses vary—it often works within 30 minutes, but may take as long as 3 hours. Stay near a bathroom.

The Day of Exam

Nothing to eat or drink for four hours before your exam time.
Take your medications as usual — EXCEPT — no insulin or oral diabetic meds.
Arrive 60 minutes before your scheduled time.
You will need a driver to take you home after the exam—please make arrangements to have a driver remain at the facility during your procedure. You will not be allowed to drive the rest of the day.
You will not be allowed to return to work until the next day. Let us know if you need a written excuse.

REMEMBER: Starting times may vary. Bring a book. Be patient. We give everyone the best exam possible—we won’t hurry through your exam just to be on time for the next one!

You will receive a prescription for a prep solution while you are here in the office. Please get this prescription filled at your pharmacy at least two days prior to your procedure. The above information as well as detailed instructions for taking the prep solution are available in a printable PDF format below.

General Instructions for Colonoscopy

Colonoscopy Prep Using SUPREP®

Colonoscopy Prep Using HalfLytely®

Colonoscopy Prep Using PEG-3350