Preparing for a Procedure
The staff at Digestive Care Associates is committed to providing excellent care to patients. If a procedure needs to be performed it is very important that you be prepared for that procedure. In order to help you manage this process you will receive specific instructions at the time of scheduling. In addition please read the following answers to common questions that can be helpful to you and your family.
What preparations are required?
The preparations for each procedure vary however it is very important that you follow all prep instructions completely as we will not be able to complete the procedure if you are not properly prepared.
Should I continue my current medications?
Most medications can be continued as usual, but some medications can interfere with the preparation or the examination. It is very important that you inform your doctor about medications you are taking, particularly aspirin products, arthritis medications, anticoagulants (blood thinners), insulin or iron products. Also be sure to mention allergies you have to medications.
Your Driver
You must be accompanied by a driver since we will be conscious sedation, after which you may not operate a vehicle for 12 hours. Your driver may leave during your procedure, but must leave a phone number where he/she can be reached, and will generally be asked not to be gone longer than 1 hour.
What do I bring?
Please be sure you bring your insurance card and a photo ID such as a driver’s license, and also a list of current medications and any allergies.
The Procedure
On the day of your procedure once you and your driver arrive for your appointment, you will be taken back into the procedure area where a nurse will get your vital signs, ask you about your prep, and ask you to change into a gown. An I.V. will be started.
Once you are ready, the doctor will come in to talk with you. You will be administered medication to make you as comfortable as possible and then you will be taken into the procedure room. In general, most procedures last about 15-30 minutes. Once the procedure is completed you will be taken back into the recovery area. Once you are awake, you will be offered something to drink and a light snack if permitted. The doctor will come out to speak to you and your driver and a nurse will provide follow-up instructions. The doctor will then send a report of your procedure to your primary care physician.
How long will it take?
The entire visit should take about 2 hours, but you will need to be prepared to take the day of your procedure off from work, due to the medications used during your procedure.
Links to find additional information:
www.asage.org